The pattern you described, where you engage in episodes of binge eating followed by periods of starvation or severe calorie restriction, is often referred to as "binge eating and fasting" or "binge-restrict" cycles. This pattern is commonly associated with disordered eating behaviors and may be indicative of an eating disorder called "binge eating disorder" (BED) combined with elements of "anorexia nervosa" or "restrictive eating."
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, during which a person consumes large amounts of food in a short period, feeling a lack of control over their eating. Following a binge episode, individuals may experience feelings of guilt, shame, and distress.
On the other hand, Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by a restriction of food intake, leading to significant weight loss, a fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.
When someone experiences both binge eating and periods of severe calorie restriction, they may be struggling with a combination of these two eating disorders, and this is sometimes referred to as "anorexia-binge eating subtype" or "atypical anorexia nervosa with binge eating."
It's essential to understand that engaging in such behaviors can be harmful to both physical and mental health and can lead to serious medical complications. If you recognize these patterns in your eating habits or have concerns about your eating behaviors, it's essential to seek help from a healthcare professional who specializes in eating disorders. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan to support your recovery and overall well-being. Remember, seeking help is a brave and important step toward healing and regaining control over your health.