What Is Binge Purge Cycle

The binge-purge cycle is a cycle of behaviors, thoughts, and emotions experienced by many people who suffer from the eating disorder bulimia nervosa. A portion of this cycle may also be experienced by people with binge eating disorder.

What is binge-purge?

Bingeing and purging involves eating much larger amounts than normal (bingeing), then attempting to compensate by removing the food consumed from the body (purging). A binge consists of eating larger portions than normal, quickly, in a short period of time, and feeling a loss of control.

How effective is purging after a binge?

Purging isn’t effective at getting rid of calories, which is why most people suffering with bulimia end up gaining weight over time. Vomiting immediately after eating won’t eliminate more than 50% of the calories consumed— usually much less.