Purpose of Review Research on Autism in eating disorders (EDs) has historically focused on anorexia nervosa (AN), with comparatively limited attention given to binge-type EDs such as bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED). This review summarises emerging evidence on Autism in binge-type EDs and highlights key clinical and research implications. Recent Findings Emerging evidence suggests that Autism is over-represented in BN and BED, although prevalence appears lower than in AN and research remains methodologically limited. Recent studies suggest that affective and reward-related processes, alongside sensory differences, may contribute to binge-type presentations. Co-occurring ADHD appears particularly relevant and may complicate recognition, clinical presentation, and treatment. Autism also remains under-recognised in binge-type EDs by ED services, where existing adaptations remain largely derived from AN models. Summary Current AN-centric models may inadequately capture Neurodivergence in binge-type EDs. More transdiagnostic, mechanism-informed research and treatment approaches are needed.
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Makin et al. (2026) studied this question.
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