Binge eating - Diagnosis 

Diagnosing binge eating 

If you think that you have a binge eating problem, visit your GP. They will be able to diagnose the condition and refer you to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or dietitian. See Binge eating – Treatment for more information.

In diagnosing binge eating, your GP will ask you about your eating habits and look for three or more of the following signs:

  • You eat much faster than normal during a binge.
  • You eat until you feel uncomfortably full.
  • You eat a large amount of food when you are not hungry.
  • You eat alone or secretly due to being embarrassed about the amount of food you are consuming.
  • You have feelings of guilt, shame or disgust after binge eating.

People who regularly eat this way are likely to be diagnosed with a binge eating disorder.

Last reviewed: 17/02/2011

Next review due: 17/02/2013

Comments are personal views. Any information they give has not been checked and may not be accurate.

lozi280590 said on 23 February 2010

I know i have a binge eating problem which i think is caused by stress and depression due to being overweight and lack of exercise due to so much university work. I cant talk to family or friends or a professional as I have problems talking about it. I feel im stuck in a vicious circle and don't know how to get out. I eat sweets everynight while doing coursework whether i am hungry or not, till the point where i feel sick but cant stop myself from eating. I'm scared that if it carries on i will start making myself sick. I know i need help but im too embrasses and shy to ask for it.

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lozi280590 said on 23 February 2010

I know i have a binge eating problem which i think is caused by stress and depression due to being overweight and lack of exercise due to so much university work. I cant talk to family or friends or a professional as I have problems talking about it. I feel im stuck in a vicious circle and don't know how to get out. I eat sweets everynight while doing coursework whether i am hungry or not, till the point where i feel sick but cant stop myself from eating. I'm scared that if it carries on i will start making myself sick. I know i need help but im too embrasses and shy to ask for it.

Report this content as offensive or unsuitable