PREVALENCE OF GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOMS IN OBESE AND NORMAL-WEIGHT BINGE EATERS

Objectives: Disturbances in gastrointestinal function may result from disordered eating and may lead to increases in gastrointestinal (GI) s ymptoms. We compared GI symptoms in obese and non-obese binge eaters a nd non-binge eaters. Methods: One hundred nineteen obese and 77 normal -weight females completed a questionnaire on bowel symptoms and binge eating behaviors for the previous 3 months. Based on binge behaviors a nd body mass index (> 30 kg/m(2)), individuals were grouped as obese b inge eaters (n = 73), obese non-binge eaters (n = 43), non-obese binge eaters (n = 14), and normal-weight controls (n = 61). Results: Obese binge eaters reported more upper GI symptoms than normal controls or o bese non-binge eaters (p < 0.001). Compared with normal controls, naus ea, vomiting, and bloating was 2-4 times more prevalent in both binge eating groups. Indigestion was more prevalent in both obese groups. Ob ese binge eaters reported more lower GI symptoms than normal-weight co ntrols (p < 0.05). Binge eating in both weight groups was associated w ith more frequent abdominal pain and dyschezia. Obesity was associated with more frequent constipation, diarrhea, straining, and flatus, whe ther or not subjects reported binge eating. Chi-square showed a signif icant association between obesity, binge eating, and symptoms of irrit able bowel syndrome, using the Manning criteria. Conclusions: Specific GI symptoms were associated with binge eating and obesity. Overall, s ymptoms were more prevalent and more severe in obese binge eaters. The high prevalence of GI symptoms in obese patients who indulge in binge eating should be considered in their evaluation and treatment.