Binge Eating Disorder in Males

Binge eating disorder is a severe, life-threatening disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of compulsive overeating or binge eating. In binge eating disorder, the purging to prevent weight gain that is characteristic of bulimia nervosa is absent.

<typohead type="2">Behavioral Characteristics:</typohead>

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Recurrent episodes of binge eating

Eating much more rapidly than normal

A sense of lack of control over eating during binge episodes • Eating large amounts of food when not feeling physically hungry

Hoarding food

Hiding food and eating in secret; e.g., eating alone or in the car, hiding wrappers 

Eating until feeling uncomfortably full

Eating throughout the day with no planned mealtimes

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<typohead type="2">Emotional and Mental Characteristics:</typohead>

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Feelings of disgust, guilt, or depression during and after overeating

Binge eating often triggered by uncomfortable feelings such as anger, anxiety, or shame

Binge eating used as a means of relieving tension, or to “numb” feelings

Rigid, inflexible “all or nothing” thinking

Strong need to be in control

Difficulty expressing feelings and needs

Perfectionistic

Works hard to please others

Avoids conflict, tries to “keep the peace”

Disgust about body size, often teased about their body while growing up

Feelings of worthlessness 

Social isolation

Depression

Moodiness and irritability

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<typohead type="2">Physical Characteristics:</typohead>

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Heart and blood pressure problems

Joint problems

Abnormal blood-sugar levels

Fatigue

Difficulty walking or engaging in physical activities

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