no, not specifically for preventing vomiting. but if you subscribe to the idea that the behavior is a form of dissociation (not everyday dissociation, but that which comes about as a trauma reaction) and if you also believe the brain research that indicates that there are certain areas of the brain that sort of shut down during that type of dissociation, which cannot remain shut down if you are engaging the balance areas of the brain....then yes, that would make perfect sense!

although, if you dont really subscribe to such ideas and you are just looking for a way to have a person distract themselves, then it still makes perfect sense! lots of people view eating disorders (and disordered eating) through the lens of addiction. and one of the concepts that is really helpful to people in addiction is that the craving only lasts 30 seconds unless you entertain it and lose yourself to it. so, doing that behavior where your mind is occupied with, "oh. em. gee. this is so silly! i cant believe im doing this!" means that its not occupied with that really strong urge to vomit.

either way though, i always think being creative like this is genius!