Eating disorders are psychological illnesses that can lead to serious physical consequences and complications. They are characterised by an unhealthy preoccupation with eating, body weight, or shape. Disordered eating involves problematic behaviours that do not meet the clinical diagnosis of an eating disorder, such as restrictive diets, binge eating, dehydration, and the use of laxatives or diet pills. These behaviours and dieting are common indicators of developing an eating disorder and can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, body size, or athletic ability.
Atypical anorexia nervosa involves many of the same symptoms as anorexia, such as restrictive eating and intense fear of weight gain, but individuals may not be underweight based on BMI despite these behaviours. It is more prevalent in sports, fitness, and athletes, and is harder to diagnose because individuals may appear to be in a healthy weight range. The medical world and general population can be barriers to getting help, as they often overlook the severity of eating disorders in individuals who do not appear underweight.
Under-Fuelling and Over-Exercising: In the fitness industry, there’s a significant issue with under-fuelling and over-exercising. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often push their bodies to the limit without providing adequate nutrition and rest. This can lead to:
• Decreased performance
• Menstrual dysfunction
• Impaired bone health
• Increased injury risk
• Chronic fatigue and burnout
Supporting Those Battling Eating Disorders:
1. Communicate your concern with empathy and without judgment.
2. Encourage them to seek professional help from a healthcare provider or specialist.
3. Avoid focusing on weight or appearance; instead, emphasize health and well-being.
4. Be supportive and patient, offering to assist in finding resources or accompanying them to appointments if needed.
