Binge Eating Disorder Quiz

 Who is the binge eating disorder quiz for?

The binge eating disorder quiz is for anyone who suspects they have binge eating disorder. The quiz is designed to help you see whether your behaviors align with the criteria for binge eating disorder. This quiz cannot be used to diagnose binge eating disorder, but it may help you gain insight into your eating behaviors and relationship with food.

What is binge eating disorder?

Binge eating disorder is a serious but treatable eating disorder characterized by repeated episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short time period.

Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting 3.5% of women and 2.0% of men.

An episode of binge eating is defined as eating large amounts of food within a specific period of time (e.g., within a two-hour window). It is accompanied by a lack of control over what or how much you’re eating.

In addition, binge eating episodes include at least three of the following:

• Eating a lot faster than usual.
• Eating until you feel uncomfortably full.
• Eating large amounts of food even though you aren’t physically hungry.
• Eating alone because you’re embarrassed about how much you’re eating.
• Feeling guilty or disgusted with yourself after the binge.

How do I know if I have binge eating disorder?

Everyone over-eats occasionally, but if you have a binge episode at least once a week for three consecutive months, you may have binge eating disorder. 

Here are some other warning signs that may indicate you have binge eating disorder:

• Being uncomfortable eating around others.
• Cutting out entire food groups.
• Hoarding food.
• Organizing your schedule around when you binge.
• Feeling withdrawn from family and friends.
• Extreme concern with body weight and shape.
• Frequent mirror-checking.
• Feeling a lack of control over your eating habits.
• Eating alone because you’re embarrassed about how much you’re eating.
• Feeling disgusted or guilty after overeating.
• Fluctuations in weight.
• Digestive concerns like constipation and acid reflux.

You may have binge eating disorder if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms.

How does binge eating disorder differ from other disorders like bulimia or anorexia?

Unlike eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia, a person with binge eating disorder does not engage in compensatory purging behaviors after a binge episode.

Compensatory purging behaviors are behaviors that people use to “undo” the binge and prevent weight gain. They may include forcing yourself to vomit after a binge, abusing laxatives or excessive exercise.

How is binge eating disorder treated?

Many people mistakenly believe that binge eating disorder is simply due to a lack of willpower. This can lead people with binge eating disorder to seek help at weight loss clinics. 

Weight loss or weight management programs can often worsen binge eating disorder because the methods used to lose weight (such as restricting food intake, weighing yourself, and limiting certain food groups) may trigger binge eating. 

Binge eating disorder is challenging, but the proper treatment makes recovery possible.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

The most common form of treatment for binge eating disorder is psychotherapy, with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) being the most commonly used treatment. During CBT, you’ll work with a trained therapist to reduce bingeing and reduce your concerns about your weight.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Another therapy commonly used to treat binge eating disorder is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). During a DBT session, a therapist will help you identify what triggers your binges and help you learn to manage those emotions without turning to food. 

Working with a Registered Dietitian

A registered dietitian can also be an important member of your care team. A registered dietitian can help you develop a healthier relationship with food, as well as help you learn how to create meals that keep you satisfied and well-nourished to prevent bingeing.

Finally, although medication alone is typically not enough to treat binge eating disorder, using certain medications in combination with psychotherapy and working with a dietitian can benefit some people.

Get personalized care online with Nourish

If you suspect you may have binge eating disorder, connecting with a registered dietitian trained in eating disorders can get you on the road to recovery. Nourish offers personalized nutrition counseling and accepts most popular insurance carriers. If you suspect you have binge eating disorder, consider booking a virtual appointment with a Registered Dietitian.