Which eating disorder is characterized by binge eating followed by purging attempts?

The eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by attempts to purge is Bulimia nervosa. Individuals with this condition typically experience episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period—known as binge eating—and then engage in compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives to prevent weight gain. This cycle can be driven by a preoccupation with body image and weight, leading to feelings of shame and a dysfunctional relationship with food.

In contrast, anorexia nervosa involves severe restriction of food intake and an intense fear of gaining weight, while binge eating disorder is characterized by recurrent binge eating without the purging behavior. Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder focuses on a lack of interest in eating or extreme picky eating, rather than the binge-purge cycle. Therefore, Bulimia nervosa is distinctly recognized by its combination of binge eating and subsequent purging attempts.