A comparison of the accuracy of self-reported intake with measured intake of a laboratory overeating episode in overweight and obese women with and without binge eating disorder

Purpose: Research has demonstrated significant underreporting of food intake in obese individuals with and without binge eating disorder (BED). An improved understanding of the accuracy of self-reported food intake is central to diagnosis of eating disorders and monitoring response to treatment. The purpose was to: (1) confirm those with BED consume significantly more kilocalories (kcal) than overweight/obese controls when instructed to overeat in the laboratory and (2) compare dietary recall data with measured intake. Methods: Fifteen women fulfilling BED criteria and 17 controls participated in an overeating episode and completed a 24-h dietary recall. Results: BED participants consumed significantly more kilocalories according to both methodologies. The BED group self-reported 90% of the measured intake compared to 98% for the control group. Mean differences between the methods indicated that on average both groups underreported intake; however, the mean difference between methods was significantly greater in the BED group. Conclusions: Findings confirm that those with BED consume significantly more than controls during a laboratory binge and controls tended to be more accurate in recalling their intake 24 h later.