ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, followed by compensatory behavior?

1. Anorexia

2. Bulimia

3. Orthorexia

4. Night Eating Syndrome

The correct answer is: Bulimia

The eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behavior is bulimia. This condition involves individuals consuming a large amount of food in a short period, often feeling a loss of control during these episodes. After binge eating, they typically engage in behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or fasting. This cycle can lead to numerous health issues, including electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal problems, and dental erosion due to frequent vomiting. In contrast, anorexia nervosa primarily involves severe restriction of food intake and an intense fear of gaining weight, rather than cycles of binging and compensating. Orthorexia entails an unhealthy obsession with eating only healthy foods, while night eating syndrome is characterized by recurrent episodes of night eating without the binge-purge cycle typical of bulimia. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurately diagnosing and supporting individuals with these conditions.