Which behavior distinguishes Bulimia Nervosa from Binge-Eating Disorder?

The behavior that distinguishes Bulimia Nervosa from Binge-Eating Disorder is the presence of recurrent inappropriate compensatory behaviors. In Bulimia Nervosa, individuals engage in behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or the misuse of laxatives following episodes of binge eating. These compensatory behaviors are aimed at preventing weight gain after the binge episodes and reflect a significant concern with body shape and weight.

In contrast, Binge-Eating Disorder involves recurrent episodes of binge eating without the subsequent compensatory behaviors. Although individuals with Binge-Eating Disorder may also experience feelings of distress about their eating patterns and may feel disgusted after eating, they do not engage in the illicit measures to counteract the binge episodes as seen in Bulimia Nervosa. This lack of compensatory behavior is the key distinction between the two disorders, highlighting the critical role that these behaviors play in diagnosing and differentiating between them.