Which eating disorder is known for binging and purging behaviors?

Bulimia is characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by purging behaviors, which may include self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or the misuse of laxatives. Individuals with bulimia often experience a lack of control during binge episodes and engage in compensatory actions to prevent weight gain. This disorder is marked by cycles of overeating and then taking drastic measures to rid the body of calories, leading to a complex relationship with food and self-image.

Understanding bulimia highlights the emotional and psychological aspects that accompany the disorder, including feelings of guilt and shame after binges, which can perpetuate the cycle of binging and purging. This is a distinct pattern that is not typically found in anorexia nervosa, which primarily involves extreme restriction of food intake, nor in binge eating disorder, where purging behaviors are not present. The female athlete triad refers to a combination of disordered eating, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis but does not specifically denote bulimic behaviors. Recognizing these differences is crucial for effective treatment and support.