Which of the following best describes episodes associated with Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, which involve consuming an unusually large amount of food in a short period and feeling a loss of control during the episodes. One defining feature of BED is that these binge episodes occur without the use of inappropriate compensatory behaviors, such as purging (vomiting or misuse of laxatives), excessive exercise, or fasting, which are often seen in other eating disorders like Bulimia Nervosa.

The absence of these compensatory behaviors is critical in differentiating BED from other eating disorders. While individuals may experience distress or guilt about their binge eating, the lack of compensatory actions sets BED apart as distinct.

The other options do not correspond to the defining characteristics of Binge Eating Disorder. For instance, involuntary bowel movements and sleep cycle issues are not typical or defining symptoms associated with BED. Similarly, sleep attacks due to hypocretin deficiency relate more to sleep disorders rather than eating disorders. Thus, the identification of episodes associated with Binge Eating Disorder hinges on the distinction that they occur without inappropriate compensatory behaviors.