Causes of Binge-Eating Disorder
It’s not known exactly what causes binge-eating disorder. Like many mental illnesses, though, there may be a variety of underlying factors, including:
Physiological Factors - Binge eating tends to run in families, although scientists don’t understand whether it is a genetic predisposition for the disorder itself or whether there are certain combinations of biologic factors that may cause binge eating. Research is ongoing to determine whether those with this condition may have low levels of brain chemicals that affect mood and appetite regulation or perhaps problems with appetite inhibiting hormones produced by the intestines.
Psychological Factors - People who have binge-eating disorder tend to have low self esteem, problems with depression and anxiety, difficulty managing impulsive behaviors or with expressing and handling emotions, such as stress, boredom, and anger. All of these things can contribute to the condition.
Sociocultural Factors - Social pressure to be thin – even unnaturally thin – can contribute to the shame that binge eaters feel about their shape and appearance as well as their eating habits. And those who grew up with parents that used food as a reward or for comfort or who made critical remarks about their children’s bodies or weight are more likely to have binge-eating disorder. Sexual abuse has also been linked to binge eating.
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