Which of the following best defines anorexia nervosa?

The best definition of anorexia nervosa is that it is an emotional disorder characterized by a desire to lose weight. Individuals with this condition often have an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to restrictive eating behaviors and a significantly low body weight relative to their age, sex, and developmental trajectory. This disorder is not merely about food consumption; it is deeply intertwined with psychological factors, including distorted body image and self-esteem issues related to body weight and shape.

In contrast, binge eating describes a different pattern of behavior typically associated with other eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, where there is an excess of food consumption in a specific timeframe. A temporary change in eating habits does not encompass the enduring and severe nature of anorexia nervosa, which can have long-term health consequences. Lastly, while some can experience eating disorders without apparent emotional issues, anorexia nervosa is fundamentally linked to emotional distress and psychological factors, making it a complex condition requiring comprehensive treatment.