Yes, if someone engages in a pattern of eating a small amount of food and then tries to induce vomiting, it can still be considered a form of bulimia nervosa. Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, which involves consuming a large amount of food in a short period, followed by attempts to compensate for the excessive food intake to prevent weight gain. One common method of compensation is self-induced vomiting, but it can also include other behaviors such as excessive exercise or the misuse of laxatives or diuretics.
In the scenario you described, the person is engaging in a behavior to avoid the consequences of consuming even a small amount of food. This behavior falls under the purging subtype of bulimia nervosa. Purging behaviors are used to rid the body of calories and can have serious physical and psychological consequences.
It's essential to recognize that eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that require professional help and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating patterns, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional or mental health specialist who has experience in treating eating disorders. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can lead to better outcomes and improve overall well-being.