Millions of people struggle with Binge Eating Disorder (BED), which is actually the most common eating disorder in America. BED is a serious and potentially dangerous mental health condition. One of the best ways to help those struggling with BED is to better understand it. Here are several common misconceptions about BED:

• All people with BED are overweight– People with BED come in all shapes and sizes. Size is not always a good indicator of an eating disorder or health. Health can exist at every size. There are many who may not get the care they need because they do not “appear” to have an eating disorder. 
• Losing weight means you’re “cured”– Many people think that dieting and losing weight are the keys to controlling BED. But focusing on dieting and weight can actually make things worse. They can make someone feel like a failure, and increase the shame they experience. Also, restricting food can increase cravings. Building a healthy relationship with food and your body is key to recovery.
• Overeating is the same as binging- These two terms are used interchangeably, but they are very different. Unlike overeating, BED goes beyond helping yourself to seconds or thirds, or eating a third slice of cake. Binge episodes involves a complete loss of control and are typically followed by intense guilt or shame.
• BED only affects women– It is a common assumption that only women struggle with BED- or any eating disorder. Statistics show that well over a third of people with BED are men. BED transcends gender, race, socio-economic statues, and sexual orientation.

For more on Binge Eating Disorder, check out this previous blog, Understanding Binge Eating Disorder, and know that our team at GROW is here to help if you or a loved one needs to learn more about BED, and how to support someone struggling with BED.

Written by: Elizabeth Kraich