Hedonics of binge eating in women with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder

Objective: Potential differences in the hedonics of binge eating between female subjects with bulimia nervosa (BN) and female subjects with binge eating disorder (BED) were examined. Method: Women seeking treatment for BN (N = 29) and BED (N = 49) completed the Eating Hedonics Questionnaire. Results: Subjects in both groups reported similar precipitants and levels of distress associated with binge eating. Of interest, BED subjects were more likely to report that they enjoyed the food, the taste of the food, the smell and the texture of the food while binge eating. In addition, the BED group reported more relaxation and less physical discomfort and anxiety as a consequence of binge eating compared to the BN group. Discussion: There are interesting and potentially important differences between individuals with BN and BED in the cognitions and behaviors associated with binge eating.