Which eating disorder involves a cycle of binge eating and compensatory behaviors?

The eating disorder characterized by a cycle of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors is Bulimia nervosa. Individuals with this condition often eat large quantities of food in a short period, known as binge eating, and subsequently engage in behaviors to prevent weight gain. These compensatory behaviors can include self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or the misuse of laxatives. This cycle is driven by a fear of weight gain and a strong desire to maintain a certain body image.

In contrast, anorexia nervosa is primarily marked by restrictive eating and an intense fear of gaining weight, without the binge-eating component. Emotional eating is more related to eating in response to emotions rather than a defined eating disorder cycle, while orthorexia involves an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating, which does not include bingeing or compensatory actions. Recognizing the features of Bulimia nervosa is essential to understanding the complexities of eating disorders and their impact on individuals' physical and mental health.