What are the two types of anorexia nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is categorized into two distinct types, which are specifically identified as the restrictive type and the binge-eat/purge type.

The restrictive type is characterized by significant weight loss through extreme dieting, excessive exercise, and other behaviors that reduce caloric intake. Individuals with this form do not regularly engage in binge-eating or purging behaviors.

On the other hand, the binge-eat/purge type involves episodes of binge-eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain.

These classifications help in understanding the different behaviors exhibited by individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa and guide treatment approaches accordingly. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for healthcare providers, ensuring that interventions are tailored to the specific type of anorexia a patient presents.