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Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a severe eating disorder characterized by frequent episodes of consuming large quantities of food, often to the point of discomfort, without compensatory behaviors like purging. Individuals with BED often feel a loss of control during episodes and experience guilt, shame, or distress afterward. This disorder can lead to significant physical health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, as well as emotional challenges like anxiety and depression. Our Palos Verdes Estates team specializes in evidence-based therapies and personalized treatment plans to support recovery and improved well-being.
Our one-on-one therapy sessions provide personalized support, helping patients address underlying issues and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
In group therapy, patients connect with others on similar journeys, fostering mutual support and shared strength in recovery.
Binge eating disorder is a serious eating disorder characterized by recurring episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period, often accompanied by feelings of loss of control, guilt, or shame. Unlike bulimia, BED episodes are not followed by compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise.
BED is caused by a combination of genetic, psychological, environmental, and cultural factors. It may stem from emotional stress, past trauma, or an unhealthy relationship with food and body image.
Common symptoms include eating unusually large amounts of food in one sitting, eating when not hungry, eating in secret, and feeling guilt or shame after eating. A medical professional or therapist can provide an accurate diagnosis.
No, BED is different from occasional overeating. BED is a diagnosable mental health condition with recurring episodes of binge eating, emotional distress, and lack of control over eating.
Yes, BED can lead to physical health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and digestive problems.
Treatment may include therapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Dialectical Behavior Therapy), nutritional counseling, medication, and support groups. A multidisciplinary approach is most effective.
Yes, certain medications, such as lisdexamfetamine (approved for BED), antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications, may help manage symptoms alongside therapy.
Therapy helps individuals understand the emotional triggers for binge eating, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and improve their relationship with food and body image.
While self-help strategies may provide temporary relief, professional support is often necessary for lasting recovery, especially for individuals with severe symptoms.
Encourage them to seek professional help and express your concern with empathy and without judgment. Avoid focusing on weight or appearance; instead, emphasize their overall well-being.
Yes, BED affects individuals of all genders. While it is often underdiagnosed in men, it is just as serious and requires treatment.
The duration of treatment varies depending on the individual. Recovery is a gradual process, and it can take weeks, months, or even years to achieve and maintain long-term recovery.
Untreated BED can lead to chronic physical health conditions, emotional distress, depression, anxiety, and lower quality of life.
Relapse is possible, but ongoing support and coping strategies learned during treatment can help maintain recovery. Regular check-ins with a therapist or support group are beneficial.
