Causes

The causes of binge-eating disorder are unknown. But genetics, biological factors, long-term dieting and psychological issues increase your risk.

Binge-eating disorder is more common in women than in men, it often begins in the late teens or early 20s.

Factors that can increase your risk of developing binge-eating disorder include:

• Family history. You're much more likely to have an eating disorder if your parents or siblings have (or had) an eating disorder. This may indicate that inherited genes increase the risk of developing an eating disorder.

• Dieting. Many people with binge-eating disorder have a history of dieting. Dieting or restricting calories during the day may trigger an urge to binge eat, especially if you have symptoms of depression.

• Psychological issues. Many people who have binge-eating disorder feel negatively about themselves and their skills and accomplishments. Triggers for bingeing can include stress, poor body self-image and the availability of preferred binge foods.

Complications

You may develop psychological and physical problems related to binge eating.

Complications that may be caused by binge-eating disorder include:

• Poor quality of life

• Problems functioning at work, with your personal life or in social situations

• Social isolation

• Obesity

• Joint problems, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some sleep-related breathing disorders

Psychiatric disorders that are often linked with binge-eating disorder include:

• Depression

• Bipolar disorder

• Anxiety

• Substance use disorder

SOURCES USED ON THIS PAGE:

Binge eating disorder? (2014, September 24). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/eating-disorders/binge-eating-disorder/binge-eating-disorder-medref#1

Binge eating disorder. (2018, August 28). womenshealth.gov. https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/eating-disorders/binge-eating-disorder