Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder, affecting millions of people across all demographics. This compassionate screening tool helps you reflect on your relationship with food and understand whether your patterns might benefit from professional support.
Binge Eating Screening Questions
Answer honestly based on your experiences over the past 3 months. There are no right or wrong answers.
How to Use the Binge Eating Screener
This binge eating screening tool is based on evidence-based questionnaires including elements from the Binge Eating Scale (BES) and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). It screens for key features of binge eating: loss of control, amount consumed, distress afterward, and frequency.
What Binge Eating Looks Like
A binge eating episode involves eating a large amount of food in a short period (typically 2 hours) while feeling a distinct loss of control — feeling unable to stop eating or control what or how much you eat. After an episode, most people feel guilt, shame, disgust, or extreme distress. Binge eating is not the same as overeating occasionally at holidays or celebrations.
Why Screening Matters
BED is significantly underdiagnosed. Many people struggle for years without recognizing it as a medical condition or seeking help due to shame. Screening is the first step. If this tool suggests patterns worth exploring, talking to a healthcare provider is a brave and important next step. Effective treatments exist and recovery rates are high with appropriate support.
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, or any health concerns.
FAQ
Is this binge eating screener free and private?
Yes, completely free, no signup, and all data stays in your browser. Nothing is recorded or transmitted.
What is binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in the United States. It involves recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period with a sense of loss of control, followed by distress. Unlike bulimia, BED does not involve regular purging behaviors. BED is a recognized medical condition with effective treatments.
What does my score mean?
This tool screens for potential binge eating patterns. A higher score indicates more frequent or severe binge eating behaviors that may benefit from professional evaluation. A positive screen does not mean you have BED — only a qualified clinician can make a diagnosis.
Where can I get help for binge eating?
Effective treatments for BED include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Some medications (topiramate, lisdexamfetamine) are also FDA-approved for BED. Start by speaking with your primary care provider or contacting the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) helpline: 1-800-931-2237.
Is binge eating related to willpower or character?
No. Binge eating disorder is a medical condition driven by neurobiological, psychological, and environmental factors — not a failure of willpower or character. People with BED often struggle in silence due to shame, but it is a recognized, treatable condition. Seeking help is a sign of strength.