Binge Eating Disorder (BED) Treatment

No one chooses to have BED but you can choose not to go through it alone. Our binge eating disorder treatment team can help you take the first steps today.

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Learn More About Binge Eating Disorder Treatment Options

If you or loved one is living with BED, there is hope for healing.
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What is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge eating is defined as consuming food well past the point of fullness in one sitting and doing this frequently to the point of feeling out of control. These episodes are often followed by deep feelings of shame or guilt.

There are unique challenges faced by those with BED. It’s not simply about willpower; it’s a recognized psychological condition that intertwines emotional well-being with eating behaviors. People with BED may eat when they’re not hungry and continue eating even when they’re full. This disorder is often accompanied by feelings of distress, embarrassment, and a critical need for compassionate understanding.

Understanding BED is the first step towards healing. It’s a journey that goes beyond managing eating habits — it’s about nurturing a balanced relationship with food and oneself.

Binge Eating Disorder Signs and Symptoms

  • Consuming large amounts of food in a short time frame
  • Eating when you feel full or an inability to stop eating when full 
  • Eating normally in the presence of others but binging when isolated 
  • Feelings of guilt, shame, or self-hate after binge episodes post-binge
  • Feeling out of control of eating behaviors
  • Frequent dieting, with or without weight loss 
  • Stockpiling food to consume when alone 
  • Experiencing the feeling of stress or anxiety that can only be relieved by eating
  • Never feeling satisfied when eating, no matter the amount of food consumed

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment Programs

Alsana’s treatment programs offer a nurturing haven for adults grappling with binge eating disorder and any co-occurring mental health challenges. Our approach is grounded in understanding and compassion, recognizing the unique journey each individual faces in their path to recovery.

Our binge eating disorder treatment is delivered by a dedicated, multidisciplinary team of treatment professionals. This collaborative team is committed to walking alongside you, offering support and guidance at every stage of your recovery journey. We understand that recovery is not a linear process, and our team is equipped to adapt to your evolving needs. We offer Residential and PHP/IOP options in Alabama, California, and Missouri, providing flexible solutions tailored to your personal recovery. For those seeking recovery within a less-structured treatment environment, our Virtual PHP/IOP programs are available and designed to empower clients to thrive and refine their recovery skills in their own environment.

Alsana's Adaptive Care Model for eating disorder recovery

Whole-Person Approach to Binge Eating Disorder Treatment

At Alsana, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for those struggling with binge eating disorder, focusing on whole-person healing and recovery. Our treatment programs integrate a HAES philosophy and adopt weight-neutral goals, ensuring that every aspect of your well-being is addressed.

Our approach to binge eating disorder treatment is rooted in reducing shame and fostering self-compassion. We understand that recovery is not just about changing eating habits; it’s about nurturing a healthier relationship with oneself and one’s body.

Alsana's Adaptive Care Model for eating disorder recovery

All of our programming is built on the foundation of our Adaptive Care Model®, which prescribes an individualized, whole-person care approach for clients recovering from eating disorders and co-occurring conditions. This evidence-based method facilitates multidimensional healing through medical, therapeutic, and nutritional care, as well as through relational and movement support. This approach to eating disorder treatment helps clients hone the recovery skills needed to sustain recovery post-treatment.

woman doing yoga during movement group for binge eating disorder treatment

BED Treatment Team

Treating binge eating disorder clients requires a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach. Essential team members include: 

  • Registered dietitian with experience with eating disorders
  • Psychotherapist with experience with eating disorders
  • Nurse
  • Medical doctor
  • Psychiatrist

Additional self-care behaviors to promote health management including but are not limited to: sleep and dental hygiene, hydration, and stress management.

woman doing yoga during movement group for binge eating disorder treatment

Binge Eating Disorder Nutritional Care

During the assessment process, Alsana dietitians gain a thorough understanding of clients’ eating and nourishment challenges and work with our eating disorder-informed culinary team to create custom meal plans that meet BED clients where they are in recovery. 

Dietitians also collaborate closely with Alsana’s therapeutic team to help clients heal their relationship with food and their body. In the individual and group settings, the Alsana team collaborates with each client to work toward making food choices that feel good and fuel their body without internal judgment.

Our goal is to create food neutrality by taking out the moral judgment of food and focusing on nourishment, flexibility, and pleasure in the nutritional healing process. Learn More About Alsana’s Approach to Nutritional Care ⟶

Alsana’s BED Nutrition Program

  • Weekly nutrition psychoeducation group  
  • Nutrition education
  • Hands-on experientials
  • Kitchen skills
  • Individualized meal plans

client creation made during binge eating disorder treatment with Alsana

Health Consequences of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) is not just a challenge to mental health; it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening physical health consequences.

  • Significant weight fluctuations
  • Gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux
  • Increased cardiovascular risks
  • Higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes
  • Sleep apnea
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety and depression
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Increased risk of other eating disorders

Binge Eating Disorder - Statistics

  • Prevalence: The overall past year prevalence of BED among U.S. adults is 1.2%. The lifetime prevalence of BED is 2.8%.
  • Mental Health Impact: Up to 23% of individuals with BED have attempted suicide, and nearly all (94%) report lifetime mental health symptoms, including mood disorders (70%), substance use disorders (68%), anxiety disorders (59%), borderline personality disorder (49%), and posttraumatic stress disorder (32%).
  • Gender Disparity: While BED affects both males and females, the prevalence is significantly higher in females.
  • Co-occurring Conditions: BED often coexists with other mental health conditions, necessitating a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Paying for BED Treatment – Insurance Coverage

Alsana is a preferred in-network provider for all major insurance companies.

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Anthem Blue Cross logo - health insurance
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Kaiser Permanente logo- eating disorder insurance coverage
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Binge Eating Disorder Treatment FAQs

Binge eating disorder is a serious eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. It’s accompanied by a feeling of loss of control during the binge, and experiencing shame, distress, or guilt afterwards.

If binge eating episodes are frequent and you feel a lack of control over your eating, it might be time to seek help. Other signs include eating in secret, feelings of guilt or shame about eating, and fluctuations in weight. If these behaviors are impacting your quality of life, treatment can be beneficial.

Treatment for BED often includes a combination of psychotherapy, nutritional education, and sometimes medication. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are commonly used. At Alsana, we tailor our treatment plans to each individual’s needs, focusing on holistic recovery.

Absolutely. With the right treatment and support, individuals can recover from BED. Recovery involves developing a healthier relationship with food and learning coping strategies to deal with emotional triggers.

The duration of treatment varies depending on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. Some people may see significant improvements in a few months, while others might need longer-term treatment.

Many insurance plans cover treatment for eating disorders, including BED. We recommend contacting your insurance provider for specific coverage details. Our staff can also assist with understanding and navigating insurance questions. You can check your coverage at alsana.com/insurance.

Yes, there are flexible treatment options available, including outpatient programs, that allow you to receive treatment while continuing with your daily life.

At Alsana, we offer a client-centered approach, integrating physical, mental, and emotional health into our treatment plans. Our Adaptive Care Model® provides a comprehensive and personalized treatment experience.

Starting treatment is a simple process. You can contact us through our 24/7 live chat or call us directly to schedule an appointment for an initial consultation to discuss your needs and treatment options. Visit alsana.com/admissions for more info.

Start the road to recovery with Alsana.

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