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What are the next steps for binge eating disorder research?

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a relatively new diagnosis, only having been included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 2013. As such, there is still much to learn about the etiology, course, and treatment of this disorder. The past few years have seen a surge in research on BED, and the momentum is likely to continue as the field seeks to better understand this complex and often debilitating disorder.

There are several key areas that warrant further investigation in order to advance our understanding of BED. First, research is needed to examine the role of genes and biology in the development of BED. While it is clear that not everyone with a genetic predisposition for BED will develop the disorder, it is unclear what specific combination of genetic and environmental factors leads to the development of BED. Second, more research is needed on the course of BED. While some individuals with BED will only experience transient episodes of binge eating, others will develop a chronic course characterized by frequent and intense binge eating episodes. It is important to understand why some individuals are able to overcome their binge eating while others spiral into a chronic and debilitating disorder.

Third, we need to better understand how to effectively treat BED. The current standard of care, which typically includes some combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication, is only effective for a minority of individuals with BED. There is a need for more effective and tailored treatments that can address the unique needs of individuals with BED. Finally, we need to learn more about the long-term consequences of BED. While there is some evidence that individuals with BED are at increased risk for developing obesity and other health problems, we need to understand how BED specifically impacts health over the course of a lifetime.

In short, there is still much to learn about BED. However, the past few years have seen a surge in research on this disorder, and the momentum is likely to continue as the field seeks to better understand this complex and often debilitating disorder..Click for source

What are the most effective treatments for binge eating disorder?

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious, life-threatening and treatable eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food (often very quickly and to the point of discomfort); a feeling of a loss of control over eating during the episode; and feeling distressed, disgusted, or guilty afterwards. Binge eating episodes are associated with three or more of the following: eating much more rapidly than normal; eating until feeling uncomfortably full; eating large amounts of food when not feeling physically hungry; eating alone because of feeling embarrassed by how much one is eating; and feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty afterwards.

Although there is no one specific cause of BED, a number of factors may contribute to its development, including genetic, biological, psychological, and sociocultural influences. BED is strongly associated with obesity, which can lead to a number of serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

There are a number of effective treatments for BED, including both psychological and medical interventions. Psychological treatments for BED typically involve some form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps patients to identify and change negative thinking and behaviors that contribute to the disorder. Medical interventions for BED may include the use of certain medications, such as antidepressants, that can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of binge eating episodes.

If you or someone you know is struggling with BED, it’s important to seek professional help. Treatment can be effective in helping people to reduce or eliminate binge eating episodes and associated difficulties, and to improve overall quality of life.

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