Which disorder involves a person repeatedly binging and then purging to prevent weight gain?

Bulimia Nervosa is characterized by a cycle of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain. Individuals with this disorder often consume large quantities of food in a short period, feeling a loss of control during these binges, and then engage in actions like vomiting or using laxatives in an attempt to counteract the effects of overeating. This pattern distinguishes Bulimia Nervosa from other eating disorders, making it crucial for understanding the specific behaviors that define the condition.

In contrast, Anorexia Nervosa primarily involves restricting food intake and having an intense fear of gaining weight, often leading to significant weight loss. Obesity is characterized by excessive body fat but does not involve the restrictive or purging behaviors seen in bulimia. Orthorexia focuses on an extreme preoccupation with healthy eating, which does not include the binging and purging cycles central to bulimia. Understanding these distinctions is key in recognizing and addressing the different forms of eating disorders.