While Binge Eating Disorder has been treated by mental health professionals for many years, it has only become recognized as a diagnosable mental disorder.

Specific diagnostic criteria will be outlined in the next edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, expected to be published in May of 2013. Binge eating is defined by the consumption of excessive amounts of food in concordance with a perceived loss of control. Unlike Bulimia Nervosa, no compensatory behavior is utilized.