Last Updated on July 6, 2026 by Mandy Tyler, M.Ed., RD, CSSD, LD
Signs of Binge Eating Disorder in Athletes
It is important for athletes, parents, coaches, and athletic trainers to be aware of the warning signs of binge eating disorder.
Let’s explore what binge eating disorder is. Then we will examine key warning signs of binge eating disorder to be aware of.
What is Binge Eating Disorder?
As the name implies, binge eating disorder is characterized by an individual engaging in recurrent episodes of binge eating.
During a binge, the individual consumes a large amount of food within a short period of time and expresses feeling a lack of control or inability to stop eating. In addition, the binges are associated with three or more of the following (1, 2, 3).
- Eating more rapidly than normal
- Eating until uncomfortably full
- Eating large amounts of food when not hungry
- Eating alone due to embarrassment about the amount eaten
- Experiencing feelings of depression, disgust, or guilt after binging
Is Binge Eating the Same as Overeating?
Binge eating is not the same as occasionally overeating at a meal such as Thanksgiving dinner. While both may include eating a large amount of food in a short period of time, what separates binge eating is the feelings associated with the binge.
During a binge, the individual feels a lack of control over eating and may express feeling the inability to stop. In addition, the individual often feels distressed regarding the binge and may express feeling guilty that the binge occurred (1, 4).
Although there is not defining criteria to the amount of food eaten during a binge, studies have reported a range of 3,000 – 4,500 calories being consumed during a binge episode (1).
Is Binge Eating Disorder the Same as Bulimia?
Binge eating disorder is not the same as bulimia. While both are diagnosed eating disorders, there is a key difference between binge eating disorder and bulimia.
Bulimia is characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory measures to prevent weight gain. This may include behaviors such as: self-induced vomiting, misuse of diuretics, laxatives or other medications, or excessive exercise (5, 6).
Individuals with binge eating disorder experience recurrent episodes of binge eating, however, they do not engage in compensatory behaviors following the binge (5, 3).
Does Binge Eating Disorder Occur in Athletes?
Binge eating disorder does occur in athletes. While it can be easy to assume that all individuals with binge eating disorder are overweight, in actuality, this is not the case.
Binge eating disorder can occur in individuals of any size and shape (7). It is important to remember that “eating disorders can occur in any athlete, in any sport, at any time (8).”
It is important to set aside any pre-conceived assumptions about who may be impacted by binge eating disorder so that athletes are not missed.
Why Does Binge Eating Disorder Occur in Athletes
There are numerous potential explanations as to why binge eating may occur (1). One that is frequently suggested in athletes relates to the athlete engaging in restrictive eating or dieting behaviors. The restrictive eating results in the athlete underfueling or consuming inadequate calories relative to the energy the athlete is expending in training and daily activities (9, 10).
Prolonged underfueling may disrupt the athlete’s normal hunger/fullness sensations, lead to intense cravings and drive to eat, and result in the binge eating episodes (10).
This can become a vicious cycle, as the athlete experiences feeling of guilt over the binge and reverts back to the restrictive eating behavior (10).
What are Key Warning Signs of Binge Eating Disorder in Athletes?
Key warning signs of binge eating disorder in athletes to be aware of include (3, 11):
- Eating large quantities of food in a short period of time
- Eating until uncomfortably full
- Eating alone or secretive eating
- Feelings of guilt or shame for the amount of food eaten
- Feeling lack of control over eating binges
- Hoarding or hiding food
- Weight fluctuations
- Body image concerns, dissatisfaction with weight or shape
- Skipping meals or eating only small amounts at meals
- Finding a large number of food wrappers in the trash can
- Withdrawal from friends or team activities
What are Health Concerns Associated with Binge Eating Disorder?
There are numerous health concerns associated with binge eating disorder, thus early identification and treatment are essential (10).
Binge eating disorder often occurs along with other mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse. Feelings of low self-esteem, which impact relationships and quality of life, are also commonly reported (1, 10).
Athletes with binge eating disorder may be at an increased risk for the development of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol levels, elevated blood pressure, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and heart disease (1, 3, 11).
While these health concerns are also associated with overweight/obesity, it is suggested that the oxidative stress and inflammation that occurs as a result of a binge eating episode may further increase an individual’s risk (10).
Athletes with binge eating disorder may also experience difficulty sleeping, joint or muscle pain, as well as GI problems such as heartburn, bloating, and diarrhea (3, 11).
Seek Help for Athletes Showing Signs of Binge Eating Disorder
To be clinically diagnosed with binge eating disorder, an athlete must engage (on average) in binge eating at least 1 day a week for 3 months (1).
However, if you suspect an athlete is binge eating, regardless of the frequency, it is important to seek help for the athlete.
Early identification and intervention are key for promoting the long-term health and well-being of the athlete (8).
Consult with a Sports Dietitian Nutritionist
Athletes who show signs of binge eating or other disordered eating behaviors can benefit from meeting with a sports dietitian nutritionist.
A sports dietitian is a key part of the treatment team, working alongside a mental health professional and physician, to address the specific health and nutrition concerns of the athlete.
Signs of Binge Eating Disorder in Athletes
You now have an overview of key warning signs of binge eating disorder in athletes. Take time to share this information with coaches, parents, and athletic teams to help increase awareness.
To learn more about disordered eating, visit the National Eating Disorder Association’s website. For additional information on eating disorders in athletes, make sure to review my blog on the warning signs of orthorexia in athletes.
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About the Author
Mandy Tyler is a Sports Dietitian Nutritionist in the San Antonio, TX area. She is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian, a Board-Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, a Licensed Athletic Trainer, and is a Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine. Mandy has experience working with athletes at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels. She believes the key to reaching one’s full potential, both in everyday life and in sports performance, relies on a healthy nutritional foundation.
