Athletic anorexia
Anorexia athletica is a common ED among athletes, particularly in sports where weight and appearance are critical factors, such as gymnastics, dance, and combat sports. Athletes with this condition adopt drastic diets and severely restrict their calorie intake to maintain a weight below what is healthy for their body. This can lead to loss of muscle mass, exhaustion, frequent injuries and mental health problems.
Athlete’s bulimia
Bulimia is characterized by recurrent episodes of excessive food consumption followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviors, such as induced vomiting or laxative abuse. In the sporting context, athletes may be encouraged to adopt this behavior to control their weight while satisfying their energy needs. It can also result from excessive pressure to maintain a specific weight in sports where weight class is critical.
Binge eating disorder
Binge eating disorder is a disorder characterized by episodes of compulsive overeating, where individuals eat large quantities of food quickly, even when they do not physically feel hungry. This disorder is often linked to feelings of loss of control and guilt. In the sporting context, it can result from the pressure to perform and the anxiety associated with competitions.
Severe dietary restriction
Some athletes may adopt extremely restrictive diets, severely limiting their calorie intake in an effort to lose weight quickly. This can take a toll on their physical and mental health, leading to loss of muscle mass, reduced performance and health problems such as chronic fatigue and hormonal disorders.
Signs and prevention
It is crucial to recognize the early signs of EDs in athletes, such as drastic changes in eating habits, obsession with weight and appearance, significant weight fluctuations and recurring health problems. Prevention involves proper education about nutrition, promoting a positive body image, and destigmatizing seeking help for mental health issues.
In conclusion, eating disorders can seriously affect the health and performance of athletes. Increased awareness, adequate support and preventative measures are essential to preserve the physical and mental health of athletes and help them reach their maximum potential in a healthy and balanced manner.