They are often driven by a fear of weight gain.
Examples of Compensatory Behaviors
The most well-known compensatory behavior is self-induced vomiting.
It can also include engaging in cleanses and drinkingspecial teas with laxatives.
Fasting or restricting food intake for a period of time after eating may also be considered a compensatory behavior.
One study found that nearly 25% of people with eating disorders engaged in this behavior.
People who do this tend to have more severe eating disorders, that study showed.
Treatment for Compensatory Behaviors
The compensatory behaviors often serve to maintaina cycle of disordered eating.
Most of the compensatory behaviors carry a risk for potential medical problems.
Treatment of the eating disorder should focus on stopping the compensatory behaviors.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most successful treatments for addressing the compensatory behaviors of an eating disorder.
Patients are taught about the dangers of the particular compensatory behaviors they are using.
In cognitive behavioral therapy, patients are taught alternative ways of managing anxiety and guilt.
They also learn to tolerate negative emotions and feelings of fullness after eating.
In such cases, they havebecome habitsand may feel “automatic.
“Professional help can help patients overcome these behaviors.
However, it is important to reach out and get support.
With the right help, it’s possible for you to stop these behaviors and recover.
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