Athletes, Athletic Performance, and Eating Disorders: Healthier Alternatives

This is a review article examining the relationship between involvement in athletics and disordered eating. According to research on risk factors in the general population, gender, race, and activities that encourage dieting or weight loss by emphasizing a thin shape play an important role in the prevalence of eating disturbance. Factors in the athletic environment that increase the athlete's risk are addressed, such as the belief among athletes and coaches that a reduction in weight or body fat can enhance athletic performance. The authors propose a shift in emphasis from athletic performance to the health of the athlete. Practical educational recommendations to reduce the athlete's risk of disordered eating are offered for athletes and sport management personnel. Additionally preventative suggestions are offered for modifying aspects of the athletic environment.