Which of the following is a defining feature of bulimia nervosa?

The defining feature of bulimia nervosa is recurrent episodes of binge eating. This condition is characterized by consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often accompanied by a sense of a lack of control over eating during these binges. The behavior is typically followed by compensatory actions, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or fasting, to prevent weight gain.

The emphasis on binge eating distinguishes bulimia nervosa from other eating disorders. While individuals may also experience weight fluctuations, the hallmark symptom remains those binge episodes, which are critical in diagnosing the disorder. Understanding this primary feature is essential for distinguishing bulimia from disorders like anorexia nervosa or other health conditions related to eating.