Binge Eating Disorder: Symptoms and Recovery Guide

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious and complex mental health condition characterized by recurring episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time, which is frequently accompanied by feelings of loss of control, distress, and guilt. Unlike other eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, BED binge eating episodes do not result in compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or fasting. As a result, people with BED are more likely to gain weight, become obese, and develop health complications.

In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association published the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which officially recognized BED as a distinct eating disorder. This recognition has been critical in improving understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of the disorder, but many people continue to suffer from it undiagnosed and untreated.

Definition and Diagnostic Criteria for Binge Eating Disorder

The DSM-5 defines Binge Eating Disorder using several key criteria. To be diagnosed with BED, an individual must experience the following:

1. Recurrent Episodes of Binge Eating: Binge eating episodes involve consuming significantly more food than most people would consume in a similar time period under similar conditions. During these episodes, you feel like you have no control over what you eat.
2. Episodes Associated with Specific Behaviors: Binge eating episodes must involve at least three of the following:

• Eating much more quickly than usual.
• Eating until you feel uncomfortably full.
• Consuming large quantities of food when not actually hungry.
• Eating alone out of embarrassment over how much one is eating.
• Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or extremely guilty afterwards.

1. Marked Distress Regarding Binge Eating: People with BED frequently experience significant distress, shame, and guilt about their eating habits.
2. Episode Frequency: To be diagnosed with BED, binge eating episodes must occur at least once a week for three months.
3. Lack of Compensatory Behaviors: Unlike bulimia nervosa, BED does not involve the repeated use of compensatory behaviors (e.g., purging, excessive exercise) to offset the calories consumed during binge eating episodes.

Prevalence and Epidemiology

Binge Eating Disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States and throughout the world, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Despite its prevalence, BED is underdiagnosed, owing to stigma and a lack of awareness.

• Global Prevalence: The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 2% of the world’s population suffers from BED, though rates may vary by region and demographic. Diet culture, food availability, and societal pressures all contribute to higher prevalence rates in high-income countries.
• United States Statistics: According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 3.5% of women and 2% of men suffer from BED at some point in their lives. BED is especially common among overweight or obese people, with some studies indicating that up to 30% of those seeking weight loss treatment may have it.
• Demographic Variations: Although BED affects people from all walks of life, certain groups are more vulnerable. Women are slightly more likely than men to be diagnosed with BED, but men account for a significant proportion of those affected. The disorder is also common in adolescents and young adults, usually appearing in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, BED can appear at any age, including middle-aged and elderly people.

Risk Factors for Binge Eating Disorder

Several factors can increase the risk of developing Binge Eating Disorder. These include genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and psychological conditions.

• Genetic Factors: Genetics has a significant impact on the development of BED. According to studies, people who have a family history of eating disorders or other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety are more likely to develop BED. Genetic variations can influence how people react to food, stress, and emotional regulation, potentially increasing the risk of binge eating.
• Environmental Influences: Cultural and societal pressures can all contribute to the development of BED. Individuals in societies where thinness is idealized may feel pressure to conform to certain body standards, which can lead to disordered eating habits. Furthermore, exposure to trauma, such as abuse or neglect, can increase the likelihood of developing BED as a coping mechanism for emotional distress.
• Psychological Conditions: Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are strongly associated with BED. Individuals with these conditions may engage in binge eating to cope with negative emotions or to fill an emotional void. Food can provide temporary comfort, reinforcing the behavior and setting off a cycle of binge eating and emotional distress.
• Dieting and Restrictive Eating: Dieting and restrictive eating habits are high risk factors for BED. Individuals who engage in frequent dieting or have a history of yo-yo dieting may be more prone to developing BED. This is because restrictive eating can cause intense cravings and feelings of deprivation, both of which can lead to binge eating episodes.
• Body Dissatisfaction: Dissatisfaction with one’s body or appearance is a frequent precursor to BED. Individuals who are unhappy with their weight or shape may turn to food for comfort, resulting in binge eating episodes. This dissatisfaction is frequently fueled by societal messages that associate thinness with success, beauty, and self-worth.
• Stress and Emotional Distress: Chronic stress and emotional distress are significant contributors to binge eating. Individuals who are experiencing significant stress, whether from work, relationships, or other sources, may turn to food as a coping mechanism. Binge eating can provide temporary stress relief, but it frequently results in feelings of guilt and shame, which can exacerbate the cycle.

Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of BED is critical for timely intervention. The symptoms can be physical, psychological, or behavioral, and they frequently overlap with other eating disorders.

• Physical symptoms:
• Weight gain or fluctuations, which can lead to overweight or obesity.
• Gastrointestinal issues like bloating, constipation, and indigestion.
• Fatigue and low energy as a result of excessive eating and poor nutrition.
• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or irregular sleep patterns.
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially with significant weight gain.
• Skin problems, such as acne or rashes, caused by a poor diet and excessive consumption of specific foods.
• psychological symptoms:
• Strong feelings of guilt, shame, or disgust after eating, especially following binge eating episodes.
• Obsession with food, body weight, and shape, often at the expense of other aspects of life.
• Depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are frequently associated with body dissatisfaction and an inability to control eating habits.
• Emotional eating occurs when food is used as a coping mechanism to deal with stress, sadness, or boredom.
• Distorted body image occurs when an individual has an unrealistic perception of their body size or shape.
• Behavioral symptoms:
• Consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, usually in secret or alone due to embarrassment.
• Hiding food wrappers and containers to conceal one’s eating habits.
• Eating quickly, without fully tasting or appreciating the meal.
• Eating despite being full or not physically hungry.
• Avoiding social situations involving food because they are afraid of binge eating or being judged for their eating habits.
• Frequent dieting or attempts to compensate for binge eating by restricting or skipping meals.

The Effects of Binge Eating Disorder on Health

Binge eating disorder has a significant impact on both physical and mental health. If not treated, the consequences can be long-term and, in many cases, severe.

• Obesity and Related Health Conditions: Obesity is one of BED’s most serious health consequences. Many people with BED struggle to gain weight because they consume too many calories during binge eating episodes. Obesity, in turn, is linked to a variety of serious health issues, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer. These conditions can shorten life expectancy and lower quality of life.
• Metabolic Disorders: People with BED have a higher risk of developing metabolic disorders like insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. These disorders can cause additional complications, such as an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Frequent binge eating can cause acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other digestive disorders. Excessive food intake can overwhelm the digestive system, causing discomfort, bloating, and other symptoms.
• Mental Health Disorders: BED is frequently linked to other mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders. Emotional distress caused by binge eating can exacerbate these conditions, creating a vicious cycle of disordered eating and poor mental health.
• Sleep Disturbances: BED can lead to insomnia and sleep apnea. Overeating can disrupt sleep patterns and cause chronic sleep deprivation due to both physical discomfort and emotional distress.
• Cardiovascular Disease: People with BED are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks and strokes. Obesity, high blood pressure, and metabolic disorders associated with BED can all increase the risk of heart-related complications.
• Joint and Mobility Issues: Excessive weight gain from binge eating can put strain on the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Over time, this can lead to osteoarthritis, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and lower back. These joint issues can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to participate in physical activity, exacerbating weight gain and other BED-related health problems.
• Diabetes: BED significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, owing to excessive consumption of high-calorie, high-sugar foods and subsequent weight gain. Insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, is common among people with BED, especially those who are overweight or obese. Diabetes complicates BED management, necessitating careful monitoring of diet and blood sugar levels.
• Liver Disease: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is another possible side effect of BED. Excess calorie intake, especially from fatty foods, can cause fat accumulation in the liver, resulting in inflammation and, in severe cases, liver damage or cirrhosis. NAFLD is strongly linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome, both of which are common in people with BED.
• Endocrine Disorders: Chronic binge eating can cause hormonal imbalances, including cortisol, insulin, and sex hormones. These imbalances can disrupt a variety of bodily functions, including stress response, metabolism, and reproductive health. Women with BED may have irregular menstrual cycles, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or fertility problems.

Psychological and social consequences

Binge Eating Disorder has a significant impact on both psychological well-being and social relationships, in addition to physical health. The disorder can cause significant emotional distress, impaired social functioning, and a lower quality of life.

• Low Self-Esteem and Body Image Issues: BED patients frequently experience low self-esteem and poor body image, which are exacerbated by the disorder’s weight gain and physical changes. This negative self-perception can result in social withdrawal, avoidance of social situations, and a reluctance to seek assistance, further isolating the individual.
• Depression and Anxiety: Depression and anxiety are frequently co-occurring conditions in people with BED. The emotional toll of living with an eating disorder, combined with feelings of shame and guilt following binge eating episodes, can aggravate these mental health problems. Chronic stress and emotional distress caused by BED can also lead to the development of anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder.
• Social Isolation: The shame and embarrassment associated with BED can lead to social isolation, as people may avoid social situations that involve food or where they are afraid of being judged for their eating habits. This isolation can lead to loneliness and a decline in mental health, reinforcing the cycle of binge eating as a coping strategy.
• Impaired Functioning: BED can reduce an individual’s ability to function effectively in a variety of settings, including work, school, and personal relationships. Physical and emotional symptoms of BED, such as fatigue, depression, and food obsession, can interfere with daily tasks and reduce overall productivity and engagement in life.
• Relationship Strain: BED can have a significant impact on personal relationships, especially when loved ones are unaware of the disorder or do not understand the difficulties the individual is experiencing. The secrecy and shame associated with binge eating can stifle open communication and trust, resulting in conflicts and emotional distance in relationships.
• Stigma and Discrimination: People with BED frequently face stigma and discrimination, both from society as a whole and within the healthcare system. This stigma can manifest as negative stereotypes about weight and eating habits, resulting in judgment, blame, and a reluctance to seek treatment. Healthcare providers may also stigmatize people with BED by focusing solely on weight loss rather than treating the disorder’s underlying psychological issues.

The Cycle Of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder frequently exhibits a cyclical pattern that reinforces the disorder’s associated behaviors and thoughts. Understanding this cycle is critical for recognizing how BED develops and why it can be difficult to overcome without professional assistance.

1. Trigger: The cycle is usually started with a trigger, which can be an emotional, environmental, or psychological event. Common triggers include stress, negative emotions, boredom, and social pressures related to body image. These triggers cause a sense of discomfort or distress, prompting the individual to seek help.
2. Binge Eating Episode: In response to the trigger, the individual engages in a binge eating episode, in which they consume a large amount of food in a short period. During the episode, the individual may experience a brief sense of relief or numbness as the act of eating distracts them from their distressing emotions or thoughts.
3. Guilt and Shame: Following a binge eating episode, the person may experience intense feelings of guilt, shame, and disgust. These emotions are exacerbated by the realization that the incident was not only harmful to their health, but also beyond their control. The individual may resolve to stop binge eating or to compensate by dieting or exercising excessively.
4. Restriction and Deprivation: In an effort to regain control, the individual may limit their food intake by skipping meals, adhering to a strict diet, or avoiding certain foods entirely. This restriction can cause feelings of deprivation and increased cravings, especially for foods consumed during the binge eating episode.
5. Increased Cravings and Tension: As the individual’s diet is restricted, physical and psychological tension builds, causing increased food cravings. The body’s natural response to deprivation, combined with the emotional distress of feeling out of control, results in a strong desire to binge eat.
6. Repeat of the Cycle: Eventually, the individual succumbs to the cravings, resulting in another binge eating episode, and the cycle begins again. This repetitive pattern is difficult to break because each phase reinforces the behaviors and thoughts associated with BED.

Binge-Eating Disorder in Specific Populations

Binge eating disorder can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are more vulnerable due to biological, psychological, and socio-cultural factors.

• Women: BED affects both men and women, but it is more commonly diagnosed in women. This gender disparity could be attributed to societal pressures on women to meet certain body standards, which leads to an increased prevalence of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors. Women are also more likely to engage in dieting and restrictive eating, both of which are high risk factors for BED.
• Men: Although BED is less commonly diagnosed in men, it is becoming more widely recognized as a serious issue. Men with BED may be less likely to seek treatment because of societal stigmas associated with male body image and eating disorders. Furthermore, men with BED may have different triggers and behaviors than women, such as using food as a stress reliever or societal pressures to achieve a muscular physique.
• Adolescents and Young Adults: BED frequently begins in adolescence or early adulthood, which is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Adolescents are especially vulnerable to developing BED due to peer pressure, body image concerns, and the impact of social media. Early intervention is essential in this age group to keep the disorder from becoming chronic.
• Older Adults: BED is not limited to younger populations; it can also affect older adults. BED in older adults may be associated with life transitions such as retirement, the death of a spouse, or health issues. The physical and psychological consequences of BED can be especially severe in this population, which may already be dealing with age-related health issues.
• Racial and Ethnic Minorities: Although BED affects people of all races and ethnicities, there may be variations in prevalence, presentation, and treatment-seeking behaviors among minority groups. Cultural influences on the development and expression of BED include attitudes toward body image and food. Furthermore, minority groups may face barriers to receiving mental health care, resulting in underdiagnosis and untreated cases of BED.

The Social Impact of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder has far-reaching consequences for families, communities, and society as a whole. The societal impact of BED is significant, affecting public health, the economy, and social cohesion.

• Healthcare Costs: The treatment of BED and its related health complications places a significant financial burden on healthcare systems. This includes the costs of managing obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions associated with BED. The need for long-term BED treatment and support, such as therapy and medication, places additional strain on healthcare resources.
• Workplace Productivity: BED can have a negative impact on workplace productivity, resulting in increased absenteeism, lower performance, and higher rates of workplace accidents. Individuals with BED may experience fatigue, depression, and other symptoms that impair their ability to function effectively at work. Employers may struggle to manage employees who suffer from BED, and the broader economy may suffer as a result of the loss of skilled workers and increased costs associated with eating disorder-related health issues.

BED can have a significant impact on families and communities. Relationship strain, emotional distress, and the possibility of financial difficulties can result in family breakdown, social isolation, and community disintegration. Children in families with BED may experience neglect, abuse, or emotional trauma, which can have long-term consequences for their development and well-being.

• Legal and Criminal Justice Costs: In some cases, people with BED may engage in behaviors that lead to legal consequences, such as stealing food or money to support their binge eating habits. These legal issues can complicate the recovery process and limit opportunities for employment and social reintegration.
• Stigma and Discrimination: People with BED frequently face stigma and discrimination, both from society as a whole and within the healthcare system. This stigma can manifest as negative stereotypes about weight and eating habits, resulting in judgment, blame, and a reluctance to seek treatment. The societal emphasis on thinness and the stigma associated with obesity can exacerbate the struggles of those suffering from Binge Eating Disorder, making it even more difficult for them to seek treatment or receive the necessary support. This societal stigma can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, exacerbating the disorder and delaying recovery.

The Cycle Of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) frequently follows a cyclical pattern, reinforcing the disorder’s associated behaviors and thoughts. Understanding this cycle is critical for recognizing how BED develops and why it can be difficult to overcome without professional assistance.

1. Trigger: The cycle is usually started with a trigger, which can be an emotional, environmental, or psychological event. Common triggers include stress, negative emotions, boredom, and social pressures related to body image. These triggers cause a sense of discomfort or distress, prompting the individual to seek help.
2. Binge Eating Episode: In response to the trigger, the individual engages in a binge eating episode, in which they consume a large amount of food in a short period. During the episode, the individual may experience a brief sense of relief or numbness as the act of eating distracts them from their distressing emotions or thoughts.
3. Guilt and Shame: Following a binge eating episode, the person may experience intense feelings of guilt, shame, and disgust. These emotions are exacerbated by the realization that the incident was not only harmful to their health, but also beyond their control. The individual may resolve to stop binge eating or to compensate by dieting or exercising excessively.
4. Restriction and Deprivation: In an effort to regain control, the individual may limit their food intake by skipping meals, adhering to a strict diet, or avoiding certain foods entirely. This restriction can cause feelings of deprivation and increased cravings, especially for foods consumed during the binge eating episode.
5. Increased Cravings and Tension: As the individual’s diet is restricted, physical and psychological tension builds, causing increased food cravings. The body’s natural response to deprivation, combined with the emotional distress of feeling out of control, results in a strong desire to binge eat.
6. Repeat of the Cycle: Eventually, the individual succumbs to the cravings, resulting in another binge eating episode, and the cycle begins again. This repetitive pattern is difficult to break because each phase reinforces the behaviors and thoughts associated with BED.

Binge-Eating Disorder in Specific Populations

Binge eating disorder can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are more vulnerable due to biological, psychological, and socio-cultural factors.

• Women: BED affects both men and women, but it is more commonly diagnosed in women. This gender disparity could be attributed to societal pressures on women to meet certain body standards, which leads to an increased prevalence of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors. Women are also more likely to engage in dieting and restrictive eating, both of which are high risk factors for BED.
• Men: Although BED is less commonly diagnosed in men, it is becoming more widely recognized as a serious issue. Men with BED may be less likely to seek treatment because of societal stigmas associated with male body image and eating disorders. Furthermore, men with BED may have different triggers and behaviors than women, such as using food as a stress reliever or societal pressures to achieve a muscular physique.
• Adolescents and Young Adults: BED frequently begins in adolescence or early adulthood, which is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Adolescents are especially vulnerable to developing BED due to peer pressure, body image concerns, and the impact of social media. Early intervention is essential in this age group to keep the disorder from becoming chronic.
• Older Adults: BED is not limited to younger populations; it can also affect older adults. BED in older adults may be associated with life transitions such as retirement, the death of a spouse, or health issues. The physical and psychological consequences of BED can be especially severe in this population, which may already be dealing with age-related health issues.
• Racial and Ethnic Minorities: Although BED affects people of all races and ethnicities, there may be variations in prevalence, presentation, and treatment-seeking behaviors among minority groups. Cultural influences on the development and expression of BED include attitudes toward body image and food. Furthermore, minority groups may face barriers to receiving mental health care, resulting in underdiagnosis and untreated cases of BED.

The Social Impact of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder has far-reaching consequences for families, communities, and society as a whole. The societal impact of BED is significant, affecting public health, the economy, and social cohesion.

• Healthcare Costs: The treatment of BED and its related health complications places a significant financial burden on healthcare systems. This includes the costs of managing obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions associated with BED. The need for long-term BED treatment and support, such as therapy and medication, places additional strain on healthcare resources.
• Workplace Productivity: BED can have a negative impact on workplace productivity, resulting in increased absenteeism, lower performance, and higher rates of workplace accidents. Individuals with BED may experience fatigue, depression, and other symptoms that impair their ability to function effectively at work. Employers may struggle to manage employees who suffer from BED, and the broader economy may suffer as a result of the loss of skilled workers and increased costs associated with eating disorder-related health issues.

BED can have a significant impact on families and communities. Relationship strain, emotional distress, and the possibility of financial difficulties can result in family breakdown, social isolation, and community disintegration. Children in families with BED may experience neglect, abuse, or emotional trauma, which can have long-term consequences for their development and well-being.

• Legal and Criminal Justice Costs: In some cases, people with BED may engage in behaviors that lead to legal consequences, such as stealing food or money to support their binge eating habits. These legal issues can complicate the recovery process and limit opportunities for employment and social reintegration.
• Stigma and Discrimination: People with BED frequently face stigma and discrimination, both from society as a whole and within the healthcare system. This stigma can manifest as negative stereotypes about weight and eating habits, resulting in judgment, blame, and a reluctance to seek treatment. The societal emphasis on thinness and the stigmatization of obesity can exacerbate the difficulties of living with BED, isolating individuals and limiting their ability to receive necessary treatment.

Preventive Strategies for Binge Eating Disorder

Preventing Binge Eating Disorder necessitates a multifaceted approach that addresses the disorder’s underlying causes, promotes healthy eating habits, and reduces the stigma associated with seeking treatment. Effective prevention strategies should be tailored to specific populations and consider cultural, social, and economic factors.

• Education and Public Awareness: Public education campaigns are critical for increasing awareness of BED and its risk factors. These campaigns should aim to educate the public on the signs and symptoms of BED, the risks of restrictive dieting, and the importance of seeking help as soon as possible. Schools, workplaces, and community organizations can all play an important role in spreading this information.
• Promoting Healthy Body Image: Efforts to encourage positive body image and challenge societal beauty standards are critical in preventing BED. This includes initiatives that encourage people to value their bodies for what they can do rather than how they look, as well as to reject unrealistic body ideals promoted by the media and popular culture.
• Support for At-Risk Individuals: It is critical to provide support to people who are at risk of developing BED, such as those with a history of dieting, body dissatisfaction, or trauma. This could include providing counseling, support groups, and other resources to help people deal with stress and emotional distress in healthy ways.
• Mental Health Services: Providing access to mental health services is critical for preventing BED. Early intervention for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD can reduce the likelihood that people will use food as a coping mechanism. Mental health professionals should be trained to recognize the symptoms of BED and offer appropriate treatment and support.
• Policy and Environmental Changes: Policies that promote healthier food environments and reduce the stigma associated with obesity can help prevent BED. This may include food marketing regulations, improvements to school lunch programs, and initiatives to increase access to low-cost, nutritious foods.
• Family and Community Support: Families and communities play an important role in preventing BED. Open communication about food, body image, and emotions among family members can help prevent the development of disordered eating behaviors. Community programs that encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and emotional well-being can also aid in prevention efforts.

Additional Resources

For individuals seeking more information about Binge Eating Disorder, there are numerous resources available, including books, organizations, and online platforms that provide support, education, and treatment options.

Books

1. “Binge Control: A Compact Recovery Guide” by Cynthia M. Bulik
   This book offers practical strategies for managing binge eating, with a focus on developing healthy eating habits and coping mechanisms.
2. “Brain Over Binge: Why I Was Bulimic, Why Conventional Therapy Didn’t Work, and How I Recovered for Good” by Kathryn Hansen
   Although focused on bulimia, this book provides valuable insights into the psychological aspects of binge eating and offers alternative approaches to recovery.
3. “Overcoming Binge Eating, Second Edition: The Proven Program to Learn Why You Binge and How You Can Stop” by Christopher G. Fairburn
   A comprehensive guide that combines scientific research with practical advice for overcoming BED, written by a leading expert in the field.

Organizations

1. National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
   NEDA is a leading organization dedicated to supporting individuals affected by eating disorders, including BED. Their website offers resources for treatment, recovery, and prevention, as well as a helpline for immediate support.
2. Binge Eating Disorder Association (BEDA)
   BEDA, now a part of the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), focuses specifically on the needs of those affected by Binge Eating Disorder. They offer educational resources, support networks, and advocacy efforts aimed at increasing awareness and access to treatment for BED.
3. Academy for Eating Disorders (AED)
   The AED is an international professional organization that promotes research, education, prevention, and treatment of eating disorders. They provide resources for both professionals and the public, including guidelines on the latest research and treatment options for BED.
4. The Eating Disorder Foundation (EDF)
   EDF is a nonprofit organization that provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals affected by eating disorders, including BED. They offer a variety of programs, including support groups, educational workshops, and resources for families and loved ones.
5. Overeaters Anonymous (OA)
   OA is a global organization that provides a fellowship of individuals who support each other in recovering from compulsive eating behaviors, including binge eating. OA offers in-person and online meetings, as well as resources based on a 12-step recovery program.