Food Insecurity and Binge Eating: Methodological and Treatment Considerations

Binge eating is prevalent among individuals living with food insecurity but is often overlooked due to differences in presentation and provider biases. In this webinar, jointly sponsored by the Binge Eating SIG and the Epidemiological & Public Health Practice SIG, we will discuss current research on the prevalence of binge eating and related behaviors among individuals living with food insecurity; review best practices for screening, assessment, and diagnosis, including how food insecurity may influence the presentation of binge eating and associated disordered eating symptoms; describe current models of binge eating etiology in food insecure populations; and consider ways to tailor evidence-based treatments to improve reach and relevancy. The webinar will be led by expert clinicians and researchers whose work focuses specifically on the overlap between binge eating and food insecurity, and will include a case presentation to inform clinical recommendations that audience members can translate back to their patients and communities. Didactic portions will be followed by interactive audience-led discussion, guided by questions solicited in advance that may address the roles of sociopolitical challenges and other eating disorder symptoms in the intersection between binge eating and food insecurity.