Disordered Eating in Athletes

Many recent studies have demonstrated a higher incidence of eating disorders among athletes than among nonathletes. The prevalence of disordered eating, unhealthy dieting, and distorted body image has been reported to range from 12% to 57%. One study revealed that 20% of females and 8% of males met...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Athletic therapy today 2006-01, Vol.11 (1), p.60-62
Main Authors: Ray, Tracy, Montenegro, Salvador O.
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:Many recent studies have demonstrated a higher incidence of eating disorders among athletes than among nonathletes. The prevalence of disordered eating, unhealthy dieting, and distorted body image has been reported to range from 12% to 57%. One study revealed that 20% of females and 8% of males met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) criteria for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and eating disorders not otherwise specified, compared with 9% and 0.5% for nonathletic females and males, respectively. Over one third of athletes have reported to use at least one extreme dieting method, 51% have tried to lose weight in the past month, and 77% want to lose weight. Questions about dieting and weight reduction among athletes are commonplace. Early warning signs can be identified when athletes complete their preparticipation physical-exam forms. Athletic trainers are often the first to detect eating disorders in athletes and should become familiar with the signs, symptoms, and multiple diagnostic tools available.
ISSN:1078-7895
1933-2068
DOI:10.1123/att.11.1.60