Is Binge Eating really a serious Eating Disorder?

There is a prevailing assumption within the public arena as well as within the population of those suffering with an eating disorder, that Binge Eating Disorder, aka Food Addiction, is less "serious" than the other eating disorders - namely anorexia and bulimia. In addition, as if to make matters worse, BED as well as the other related eating disorders are viewed [even by patients] as a breakdown in self discipline or a failure of willpower. The more recent research would suggest these perceptions are dangerously mistaken.

As to the issue of consequences or potential risks associated with Binge Eating, a recent article in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences reveals binge eaters have up to a four fold increase in being unable to perform day to day "normal activities" - sometimes referred to as ADL's [activities of daily living]. These can include proper hygiene, preparing meals, gainful employment, and maintaining their living space. Although specific statistics are currently in the process of being compiled, it is becoming evident the incidence of clinical depression, suicide, premature death, numerous chronic diseases processes such as diabetes and heart disease are significantly greater among those suffering with BED. Suffice it to say, BED has as great an impact on the quality of life as do it's cousins, anorexia and bulimia.

In terms of incidence in comparison to other eating disorders, the study found BED to be more than twice as common as Bulimia, not only in the United States but in other countries included in the research such as Mexico, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and several other countries. I suspect the incidence of BED is also significantly higher in men in comparison to Bulimia as well.

As has been demonstrated with the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging [MRI] of the brains of Binge Eaters, the structure of the brain [dopamine receptors] and the concentration of neurotransmitters [specifically dopamine] differ from those of their non-eating disordered peers. More specifically, their "reward centers" in the brain are geared toward overeating to "feel good" or, in the latter stages of the disease, to avoid feeling bad. This evidence suggests BED is as much a disease process as any other eating disorder, or in my opinion, an addictive illness in the form of an eating disorder.

The study source is the Harvard Medical School.