ED Deep Dive #2: Bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder
This week as part of the ED Deep Dive series of posts, I’m covering #2 and #3 on the DSM-5’s list of eating disorder classifications: Bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder (BED).
These two disorders can often be grouped together as they both involve binge-eating food. But the main difference between Bulimia nervosa and BED is that the former involves engaging in compensatory behaviors after the food has been consumed.
Read on to learn more about the differences between Bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.
*Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of signs, symptoms, and criteria for diagnosis. For more information, click the links throughout.*
Bulimia nervosa
According to the DSM-5, Bulimia nervosa is defined as the following:
Eating an amount of food that is larger than what most would eat in a similar period of time (within any 2-hour period) under similar circumstances.
A feeling that one cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating.
Recurrent inappropriate compensatory behaviors in order to prevent weight gain, such as:
Self-induced vomiting
Misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications
Fasting
Excessive exercise
Self-evaluation is unjustifiably influenced by body shape and weight.
The disturbance does not occur exclusively during episodes of anorexia nervosa.
Per the latest update of the DSM, Bulimia nervosa is no longer divided into two types: purging and non-purging.
The repetitive binge–purge cycle that occurs with Bulimia nervosa can cause serious harm to all systems of the body including electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to cardiac arrest.
If you or someone you know may be engaging in behaviors that mimic the symptoms of Bulimia nervosa, see the full list of signs and symptoms here, and visit the Rules & Resources page to find out how to get help near you.
Binge eating disorder (BED)
The first two definitions for Bulimia nervosa are also the first two definitions for BED, but those who suffer from binge eating disorder may also experience the following:
Eating more rapidly than normal
Eating until uncomfortably full
Eating large amounts of food even when not physically hungry
Eating alone due to embarrassment by how much one is eating
Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty after overeating
Unlike Bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder is not associated with regular compensatory behaviors.
Common misconception about binge eating disorder: Not all who are diagnosed with binge eating disorder are what clinicians may classify as “overweight” or “obese”; binge eating disorder can be diagnosed at any weight.
To see a full list of diagnostic criteria, warning signs, and health consequences of binge eating disorder, click here.
