How common is binge eating disorder?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in the U.S. The prevalence of binge eating disorder among U.S. adults is 1.2%. It is twice as high in females as in males.

The average age of onset for BED is 21-years-old, which is slightly older than other similar conditions like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa which commonly occur at around 18. 

While the disorder often starts at a young age, the age group most affected is the 45-59 age bracket, followed by 18-29 year olds.

BED is seen more frequently in people with symptoms of depression.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most common treatment for BED, since it provides people with coping mechanisms important for overcoming deep-seated and wrong beliefs about body image and food.


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