Binge Eating Disorder in Adolescents and Emerging Adults

Abstract

Binge eating disorder affects individuals of all ages, genders, sizes and socioeconomic backgrounds. This chapter provides an overview of binge eating disorder as it relates to adolescents and adults, including providing a review of the diagnostic criteria, risk factors, prevalence rates and medical complications and co-morbidities. Obesity is associated with a higher incidence of binge eating disorder; as a result, several myths exist related to obesity and an individual’s nutritional status. This chapter discusses nutritional complications and the role of malnutrition as it relates to obesity and binge eating disorder. Several treatment interventions have been studied for their effectiveness in treating binge eating disorder. A review of psychotropic medications, therapeutic interventions and behavioral nutrition strategies are outlined, including their effectiveness and limitations. Special populations and the role and impact of bariatric surgery are also discussed.