What eating disorder was introduced in the DSM-5?

Binge eating disorder was introduced in the DSM-5 as a distinct diagnosis, marking a significant development in the classification of eating disorders. Prior to the DSM-5, binge eating episodes were recognized but did not have a standalone diagnosis, which made it difficult for individuals experiencing this condition to receive appropriate treatment.

The diagnostic criteria for binge eating disorder emphasize recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often accompanied by a sense of loss of control during the eating episodes and feelings of shame or distress afterward. This shift in the DSM-5 allowed for better recognition of those who struggle with this specific pattern of disordered eating, leading to improved research, understanding, and treatment options aimed at helping affected individuals.

Other eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa and pica, have long been recognized and were included in earlier versions of the DSM. Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, while also outlined in the DSM-5, is a different condition that is characterized by avoidance of certain foods or types of food, leading to nutritional deficiencies, rather than the binge-eating pattern noted in binge eating disorder. Therefore, the introduction of binge eating disorder as a separate diagnostic entity is central to understanding the evolution of eating disorder classifications in the DSM-5.