Which eating disorder is characterized by self-imposed starvation due to a distorted body image?

Anorexia Nervosa is a serious eating disorder primarily characterized by self-imposed starvation and an intense fear of gaining weight, stemming from a distorted body image. Individuals with this disorder often see themselves as overweight even when they are underweight, leading to extreme dietary restrictions and an obsession with body shape and weight.

This condition typically involves not only extreme calorie restriction but also other behaviors such as excessive exercise, purging, or the use of weight-loss supplements. The psychological aspect is significant, as these individuals may have a distorted perception of their bodies, which drives their starvation behaviors. Anorexia can have severe physical health consequences, including malnutrition, heart complications, and in extreme cases, can be life-threatening.

Other options represent different eating disorders with distinct characteristics. For instance, Binge Eating Disorder involves recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food without subsequent purging, while Bulimia Nervosa includes cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise. Orthorexia focuses on an unhealthy obsession with eating only healthy foods, which differs from the self-starvation seen in Anorexia Nervosa. Each disorder has unique symptoms and underlying psychological issues, making it crucial to identify them accurately for effective treatment.