What We Treat

Binge Eating Disorder Symptoms and Signs

Binge eating disorder can result in a variety of symptoms, including heart disease, depression, anxiety and severe stress. Though many of those impacted are overweight or obese, it’s important to note cases of binge eating disorder transcend all weight ranges. The presence of a binge episode, in addition to associated feelings of shame, anxiety and distress, is what often differentiates binge eating disorder from other conditions.

Common symptoms of binge eating disorder

Physical Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder

Physical signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder may include:

Weight gain
Fullness that reaches pain and discomfort
Fertility issues (women)

Behavioral and Emotional Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder

Behavioral signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder may include:

Frequently consuming very large amounts of food
Eating when not hungry
Eating alone or in secrecy
Eating rapidly
Inability to stop eating once started
Frequent dieting or “failed” attempt(s) at dieting
Skipping meals or not eating much throughout the rest of the day
Hiding food

Emotional symptoms of binge eating disorder may include:

A feeling of being out of control during eating
Strong dissatisfaction or self-loathing around one’s body or appearance
Anxiety and/or depression
Intense stress
Low self-esteem
Extreme shame
Mental anguish
Social withdrawal

Other Red Flags

Other reasons for concern with binge eating disorder include:

Presence of wrappers or containers of food
Skipping meals or not eating much throughout the rest of the day