Over the past few years, binge eating disorder has gained prominence as one of the common eating disorders; in fact studies now indicate that it could be the most common of all eating disorders. However, despite its commonality, doctors and researchers have not been able to accurately and decisively pinpoint the exact cause of binge eating disorder.

There is one thing that most researchers agree on however, like in the case of anorexia and bulimia, it originates in the mind, i.e. it is psychological in nature. Studies have shown that around 50 percent of all binge eaters have a history of depression.

However, it is difficult to point out this depression as one of the causative factors; the depression could be as a result of the binge eating too.

Genetic causes?

Studies are going on to determine if there is a genetic angle to binge eating disorder as well, as it has been discovered for anorexia and bulimia. There are also studies going on to determine the effect of neurochemicals as well as metabolism rates on binge eating.

There is one school of thought that believes that there can be a chemical trigger to an eating binge. Certain studies have shown that eating binges can be purely impulsive at times. Sometimes, however, they can be triggered by mood swings in the negative areas of emotion – anger, depression, sadness, anxiety, etc.

Dieting may trigger binge eating

Another area that is being looked into by researchers is the impact that dieting can have on binge eaters. While dieting can be a possible trigger for binging episodes, studies have shown more than 50 percent of all binge eaters to have suffered from binging episodes even prior to their dieting.

Some Statistics Related to Binge Eating Disorder

The following statistical data highlights the prevalence of binge eating among Americans today.

About one or two percent of the American population, i.e. roughly 1 to 2 million people, suffer from binge eating disorder. 20 percent of people suffering from binge eating disorder have been found to be obese as well. However, this is not to say that people who weigh in correctly are incapable of suffering from binge eating disorder.

In terms of gender ratios, women stand a higher chance of suffering from binge eating, with three female patients for every two male ones. Scientists have not been able to determine if ethnicity plays a role in determining who suffers from binge eating disorder – both black as well as white people have been found to be equally susceptible.

Effects of Binge Eating Disorder

Patients suffering from binge eating disorder suffer from a number of physical ailments. Most of these are related to obesity, as the tendency in binge eating patients is to put on weight rapidly. Binge eating disorder can cause secondary complications, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high levels of cholesterol, cardiac problems, gall bladder problems, and even cancer in certain cases.

There are social complications as well - people tend to become withdrawn, avoid socializing, and also usually suffer from a lowering of self-esteem.

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