Fluctuations in negative emotions predict binge eating both in women and men: An experience sampling study.

This study investigated the associations between emotional fluctuations and emotion regulation difficulties in predicting binge eating and overeating episodes using the experience sampling method among 97 women and 61 men. Among women, fluctuations in negative emotion, emotion regulation difficulties, restrained eating, and the interaction of negative emotion fluctuations and emotion regulation difficulties predicted binge eating. Among men, trait impulsivity and fluctuations in negative emotion predicted binge eating. However, overeating did not associate with aforementioned aspects. Results suggest that fluctuations in negative emotions should be studied in the context of emotion regulation difficulties.