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Validity of test meals for determining binge eating
D A Anderson1, D A Williamson, W G Johnson
1Department of Psychology, University at Albany, SUNY, Social Sciences 112, Albany, NY 12222, USA. drewa@csc.albany.edu
Eating Behaviors
|March 6, 2004
Summary
Laboratory test meals can objectively identify binge eating disorder (BED). Individuals with BED consumed more food and felt less control during a test meal compared to non-binge eaters.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Self-report measures for binge eating are often unreliable.
- Objective assessment methods are needed to accurately diagnose binge eating disorder (BED).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the validity of a laboratory test meal as an objective measure for diagnosing BED.
- To compare eating behavior and perceived control during a test meal across different participant groups.
Main Methods:
- Eight individuals with BED, eight obese non-binge-eaters, and eight normal-weight non-binge-eaters participated.
- Participants consumed a test meal under conditions designed to elicit binge eating.
- Eating behavior and feelings of control were assessed.
Main Results:
- Participants with BED consumed significantly more food than non-binge eaters.
- Individuals with BED reported significantly less control over their eating compared to non-binge eaters.
- Non-binge eaters, irrespective of weight, maintained control and ate smaller quantities.
Conclusions:
- Laboratory test meals provide a valid and objective method for assessing binge eating.
- Observed eating behavior during test meals can differentiate individuals with BED from non-binge eaters.
- This method may improve the objective definition and diagnosis of binge eating disorder.
