What are the subtypes of anorexia nervosa?

The subtypes of anorexia nervosa consist of two distinct patterns of behavior regarding food intake and weight management. These are the restricting subtype and the binge-eating/purging subtype. The restricting subtype is characterized by a significant reduction in food intake, leading to weight loss, without the regular engagement in binge-eating or purging behaviors. In contrast, the binge-eating/purging subtype involves episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging (vomiting, misuse of laxatives, etc.) to control weight.

The identification of these subtypes is crucial in terms of diagnosis and treatment approaches, as the underlying behaviors and psychological components may differ significantly between the two. This distinction guides clinicians in understanding the severity of the condition and tailoring interventions that address the specific behaviors exhibited by the individual.

Other options do not accurately reflect the established subtypes of anorexia nervosa. For instance, elements pertaining to normal weight and overweight or severity classifications are not recognized as subtypes in the clinical definition of anorexia nervosa.