Eating Disorders in Athletes
In a culture that idolizes “fit” body types, praises self-control over diet and exercise, and glorifies perfectionism, these societal pressures can trigger many individuals to pursue eating disorder behaviors as a way to cope with these unrealistic expectations. Athletes have the added pressure of competing and meeting eligibility requirements for their respective athletics. For certain sports, part of the winning mentality includes maintaining a certain body type or staying within a certain weight range. These disordered standards can contribute to the development of an eating disorder.
by: Amanda Nussbaum
Eating disorders are complex mental health disorders that affect more than 30 million Americans. Eating disorders often result in a poor relationship with food, exercise, and one’s body. Genetics can be a contributing factor in the development of an eating disorder, but negative remarks from family members, bullying, social media, as well as self-comparison could also increase the likelihood of an eating disorder. Although people from any background or age can develop an eating disorder, sports often encourage disordered dieting and exercise behaviors, which put athletes at a higher risk for developing an eating disorder. In fact, athletes have a three times greater chance of developing an eating disorder than non-athletes.
Recreational and competitive sports teach athletes self-discipline, teamwork, and leadership. Sports are also a good way for people to stay active and improve their physical and mental health. However, many athletes believe weight directly correlates with their performance. Many coaches and athletes have unhealthy weight or appearance expectations. Athletes often think that if they are not at an “ideal” weight, they will not succeed even if there are factors beyond their control like body composition or genetics. This misperception can cause athletes to avoid eating, engage in purging or compensatory behaviors that can not only interfere with their performance, but lead to serious health consequences.
Studies show that 25% of females and 20% of males in college athletics have been diagnosed with an eating disorder. Binge eating disorder also affects more athletes than non-athletes.
Although any athlete can develop distorted thoughts or behaviors, certain sports significantly emphasize appearance. Indeed, in some sports, athletes believe they will have an advantage if they weigh less and that this lower weight will improve their agility and endurance. In fact, 13% of athletes in judged sports exhibit eating disorder tendencies compared to the 3% participating in refereed athletics. For example, “lean sports” like figure skating, cycling, diving, gymnastics, and synchronized swimming mainly focus on an athlete’s individual performance. Participants in cheerleading and volleyball wear form-fitting apparel, which can make these athletes more self-conscious. The desire for a particular body image can cause athletes to engage in eating disorder behaviors in an effort to stay lean and petite. Athletes may also display signs of an eating disorder if they are shamed in front of their teammates or see others praised for their body.
Other sports, like boxing, bodybuilding, wrestling, martial arts, weightlifting, football, and rowing often require athletes to have their weight tracked. Wrestlers often believe they will have an advantage if they compete in a lower weight class. As a result, some wrestlers may turn to binge eating, disordered eating patterns, over-exercising, steroids, supplements, sitting in a sauna, or wearing layers of clothing to alter their weight. Studies have also shown that throughout a wrestler’s “typical” season, athletes may lose or gain a significant amount of weight per week, which clearly shows that athletes often take drastic measures for their sport.
Eating disorders can have a significant impact on an athlete’s overall health. According to the Female Athlete Triad, eating disorder behaviors are linked to low energy, irregular or missing menstrual cycles, or developing osteoporosis. Athletes who experience one or more of these side effects have a greater chance of developing the other conditions as well. Athletes can also develop other complications, such as fractures, dehydration, and problems with their reproductive and cardiovascular systems.
Parents, coaches, and trainers can help reduce the likelihood of eating disorders among athletes. Comments about appearance, having unhealthy or unrealistic weight expectations, and teaching athletes that losing is equivalent to failure should be avoided. Athletes tend to perform better if they are praised for their efforts and accomplishments, rather than being mocked for their physical appearance. Families and coaches should also educate athletes about proper nutrition, eating disorder warning signs, and the associated health consequences. Athletes should also have access to therapists, sports psychologists, and other mental health professionals. It will also help if coaches get to know their athletes on a personal level and check-in to see how they are doing. While sports can help children, adolescents, and adults improve life skills as well as their physical health, mental health and self-preservation should always come first.
At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, we treat the spectrum of eating disorders, including Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, compulsive overeating, and other disordered eating behaviors and body image issues. Currently, we are offering a range of virtual programs and services beneficial to athletes, including a Body Image group, Intuitive Eating group, individual nutritional counseling, and meal support. Our admissions team would be glad to answer any questions you may have about our programs and how we can help you on your recovery journey. Click the button below to learn more about our programs and services!
This post was written by BALANCE Blog Intern, Amanda Nussbaum.
Amanda is a recent graduate of Ramapo College, where she majored in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. She enjoys being creative, writing, and editing videos, and is passionate about health, wellness, and lifestyle. Throughout college, Amanda volunteered with the Girls on the Run organization, which helps young girls develop a positive self-esteem. She also mentored a young girl through Ramapo College’s chapter of Big Brother, Big Sister. Amanda’s involvement in these organizations helped her realize that she wants to work for a company that has an impact on others, while still being creative with marketing. In the future, Amanda hopes to work in the marketing or communications department of an organization that focuses on teenagers and young adults, and their health and self-confidence. She enjoys contributing to the BALANCE blog!