Binge Eating Disorder: 3 Common Myths and Facts

Binge eating disorder is the most prevalent type of eating disorder in the United States.¹ Despite this, there are a significant amount of myths, stigma, and misinformation surrounding this disorder. Understanding the truth about binge eating disorder is crucial for effectively supporting those affected by it. This article delves into three common myths and provides the factual information needed to dispel them.

Myth 1: Binge Eating Disorder is a Choice

Fact: Binge eating disorder is not a choice. It is a complex illness influenced by various factors, including family history, genetics, environment, and biology. Individuals do not choose to have a binge eating disorder any more than they choose to have any other illness.²

Myth 2: Binge Eating Disorder Only Affects Certain Groups

Fact: Binge eating disorder can affect anyone, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. The misconception that only certain groups are affected can prevent individuals from seeking treatment or having their symptoms properly identified, thereby increasing stigma and health inequities. Some warning signs of binge eating disorder include:

• Consuming a large amount of food in one sitting (binge eating) at least once a week for three months
• Eating quickly and feeling uncomfortably full
• Feeling out of control during eating episodes
• Eating when not physically hungry
• Eating alone due to shame or guilt about eating habits²

It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of symptoms. A licensed healthcare provider should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment.

Myth 3: Binge Eating Disorder Can Be Prevented and Treated by Simply Practicing a Healthy Lifestyle and Self-Love

Fact: Binge eating disorder is a serious health condition that often requires multiple forms of treatment due to its complex impact on a person's health and life. Treatment may include therapy, behavioral health changes, nutritional counseling, and other interventions tailored to meet the individual's needs.¹

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder, contacting a health professional to explore treatment options is vital. Binge eating disorder is a common diagnosis, often presenting in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, many people refrain from sharing their symptoms with healthcare providers due to concerns about stigma and shame.

Additional Facts About Binge Eating Disorder

While binge eating disorder affects more females than males, the gender ratio is less skewed compared to other eating disorders, which predominantly affect females.³ This disorder is a legitimate medical condition and not a result of moral failings. Contrary to another common myth, binge eating disorder is not necessarily associated with larger body size. Individuals of any weight can have binge eating disorder, and not everyone with a larger body size engages in disordered eating behaviors.

Several factors contribute to the development of binge eating disorder, including underlying genetic vulnerabilities, stress, mood regulation, and psychiatric comorbidities. Dieting and body dissatisfaction are also common among individuals with binge eating disorder, with psychological symptoms such as depressed mood often being more prevalent.²

Seeking Help for Binge Eating Disorder

The most crucial takeaway about binge eating disorder is that help is available. It is a valid medical condition that warrants compassion and understanding, not criticism or blame. Effective treatments are available, and many experienced clinicians are skilled in delivering the necessary care.

Understanding and addressing the realities of binge eating disorder can help reduce stigma and provide better support for those affected. If you or someone you know is experiencing this condition, reaching out for professional help can be the first step toward recovery.

Sources:

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2024a, January). Eating disorders. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders
2. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2024, May 1). Eating disorders. Eating Disorders. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Eating-Disorders/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5ea1BhC6ARIsAEOG5pwm6rM7Lp28sZueNVaapi_0gU74eiWoxzZEXmjRSnmswctxEOcz-DkaAtWrEALw_wcB
3. Eating disorder statistics. ANAD National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. (2024, April 3). https://anad.org/eating-disorder-statistic/