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Buzz Feed
6 hours ago
- Health
- Buzz Feed
Popular Eating Habit May Be A Disorder, Experts Warn
Spend more than 30 seconds on TikTok, and you'll hear fitness influencers sing the praises of intermittent fasting. This eating plan is touted as a 'lifestyle change' rather than a diet, where people consume calories on a 16:8 plan (fast for 16 hours; eat normally for eight hours), a 5:2 plan (eat normally for five days; fast for two days) or another variation. The purported benefits of intermittent fasting are numerous: It can curb late-night eating, reduce inflammation, lower your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, improve gut health and, of course, lead to weight loss. But for folks who may be affected by disordered eating, intermittent fasting could lead down a slippery slope. An estimated 9% of the U.S. — or about 28.8 million people — will have an eating disorder in their lifetimes. While eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia must meet specific diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, disordered eating can apply to anyone with body image issues, dieting and/or psychological distress around food. People with disordered eating behaviors might hide in plain sight behind popular diets and wellness trends like intermittent fasting, which provides the perfect cover for restrictive eating. It's A Socially Acceptable Disguise Most people would be concerned to hear a friend say they were starving themselves, but no one bats an eye with intermittent fasting. 'Intermittent fasting can sometimes serve as a socially acceptable disguise for disordered eating behaviors,' said registered dietitian nutritionist Becky Mehr, director of outpatient nutrition at The Renfrew Center, a network of eating disorder treatment facilities. 'While it is often marketed as a tool for weight loss, improving metabolic health or simplifying eating patterns, it can become problematic — especially for those with a history of eating disorders,' she said. Mehr explained that because scheduled fasting requires skipping meals and ignoring hunger cues, it'll hide your disordered eating without raising concern. In fact, it could promote the opposite: praise for weight loss or 'perceived discipline' that could reinforce harmful behaviors. Mehr adds, 'Our bodies are not machines or calculators — they don't thrive on rigid calorie restrictions or time-bound nourishment.' Dr. Anne Marie O'Melia, chief clinical and quality officer at the Eating Recovery Center, told HuffPost, 'For individuals who are genetically and environmentally vulnerable to developing eating disorders, any form of caloric restriction or adherence to rigid food rules — including intermittent fasting — significantly increases their risk.' In fact, recent research has shown that many young women who participated in intermittent fasting had traits of eating disorder behaviors such as overeating, binge eating, vomiting, laxative use, compulsive exercise and fasting. 'We know that dieting and restriction are the number one predictors of eating disorder onset, particularly in adolescents and young adults,' O'Melia explained. 'The promise of short-term benefits like weight loss or metabolic changes pales in comparison to the real and devastating risks: Eating disorders have significant psychiatric and medical consequences, and the highest mortality rate among mental illnesses.' Intermittent fasting 'may seem harmless or even beneficial at first, but for too many people, it is a gateway into long-term, life-threatening struggles with food and body,' she added. Bottom line: The potential benefits of intermittent fasting do not outweigh the risks of developing or worsening an eating disorder. So how do you know if it's safe to try intermittent fasting? Our experts shared that it's all in your head — or, more specifically, in your mindset. 'The key difference lies in mindset, intent and impact on daily life,' Mehr said. If you are able to do intermittent fasting without obsessive thoughts about food or body image, and without rigid food rules that impair your daily functioning, then it might be OK. For everyone else, it can quickly spiral into disordered eating. This might look like 'experiencing intense anxiety about breaking 'rules,' obsessing over food, feeling shame about eating, avoiding social events involving food or using fasting as a way to control weight at all costs,' according to O'Melia. 'No one sets out thinking, 'I want to develop an eating disorder,' but for individuals with certain genetic, psychological and environmental risk factors, seemingly healthy choices can inadvertently lead to dangerous patterns,' O'Melia said. Signs intermittent fasting is triggering disordered eating include: Compensatory behaviors, like excessive exercise or purging. Avoiding social meals that don't fall in your eating window. Increasing preoccupation with food, body image or weight. Low energy, mood disturbances, sleep issues or trouble concentrating. Only eating 'safe' or 'healthy' foods. Eating in isolation; secrecy or hiding of eating behaviors. Binge eating symptoms, feeling of loss of control when eating. Feeling anxiety, guilt or shame if you eat outside your 'allowed' window. Experiencing medical issues such as fainting, amenorrhea, GI distress, or fatigue, dizziness, weakness, irritability or obsessional thinking about food. Negative or emotionally reactive responses to expressions of concern about changes in behavior. Any additional or increasing behaviors that can be associated with eating disorders, such as laxative use, changes in exercise patterns, developing food rules about the types of food eaten rather than just the times that food is eaten. If fasting starts to feel like an obligation instead of a choice — or affects your ability to enjoy life — it may be time to reevaluate. 'It's critical to remember that the human body is incredibly complex — and it thrives when treated with compassion, not punishment,' O'Melia said. 'Most people' should not do intermittent fasting, Mehr said, and 'especially those with a history of eating disorders, mental health struggles or nutrient deficiencies.' O'Melia added, 'Anyone with a personal history or a significant family history of an eating disorder, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, significant anxiety or depression, trauma history, or compulsive exercise patterns should avoid intermittent fasting.' If you have a fragile relationship with food and could be affected by self-imposed rules or restrictions around when you can eat, then intermittent fasting is not for you. 'Our bodies are designed to let us know when they need fuel,' Mehr explained. 'Ignoring those cues can lead to preoccupation with food, disrupted metabolism and emotional distress. [Intermittent fasting] is like telling someone to only use the bathroom during certain hours — it creates fixation, not freedom.' Our experts agreed that no one should do intermittent fasting without close guidance by their medical provider. Our experts were quick to slam any structured diet or food group restriction (other than for allergies). 'Eating should be a source of nourishment and pleasure, not a battleground,' O'Melia explained. 'I encourage patients to focus on balanced meals, variety, satisfaction and listening to their bodies.' Both experts recommend intuitive eating that listens to hunger and fullness cues. This includes eating a wide variety of foods without guilt (yes, desserts too!); respecting body diversity; participating in joyful movement; managing your stress and getting enough sleep; and centering mental, emotional and social health alongside physical health. And be gentle with yourself when unlearning toxic diet culture ideals. 'Food is not just fuel; it's joy, connection, culture and comfort,' Mehr said. 'A healthy eating pattern respects both your body's needs and your lived experience.' 'Instead of listening to external rules, we should be learning to trust our bodies,' Mehr added. 'All bodies are different. All bodies are valuable. And food should never be a source of shame or punishment.'
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
RFK Jr., West Virginia's governor and why you shouldn't comment on someone's weight
On Friday, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey and Robert F. Kennedy held a joint event to announce a ban on certain food dyes. Morrisey also announced that his state had submitted a waiver to prohibit Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from being used to purchase soda, which Kennedy has supported. At the event, Kennedy didn't hold back from telling Morrisey to change his diet, too. "The first time I saw him, I said, 'You look like you ate Governor Morrisey,'" Kennedy said during their joint appearance in Martinsburg, commenting on Morrisey's weight. "I am going to put him on a really rigorous regimen, and we're gonna put him on a carnivore diet." "Raise your hand if you want Gov. Morrisey to do a public weigh-in once a month," he continued as the crowd applauded. "Then when he's lost 30 pounds, I'm going to come back to the state and do a celebration and a public weigh-in with him." The comments were met with some harsh reactions online and were also dissected in several headlines that followed the event, with some decrying what they felt amounted to nothing more than fat shaming. Morrisey took Kennedy's comments lightly, inviting the Health and Human Services Secretary to be his personal trainer. Later, he reaffirmed his commitment to health and weight loss with a post on X. But body image experts say weight shaming doesn't only affect the intended target, and even well-intended comments on someone's body can do more harm than good. Comments like Kennedy's can be seen as fat shaming, which experts say can lead to mental health issues like low self-esteem. Online, people had mixed reactions. 'This isn't health policy, it's frat house bullying in a lab coat,' wrote one commenter. 'How do public weigh-ins fix structural health issues like poverty, food deserts, or underfunded healthcare? They don't. But they sure distract from real policy." One RFK Jr. enthusiast added: "I really like RFK, and I think it's great that he wants to change the country and make it healthy again, but fat shaming people, regardless of the circumstances, not cool in my eyes … Do better RFK." "This wasn't a fat shaming," another argued in RFK Jr.'s defense. "The governor himself began the event by talking about the need to be more healthy, challenging people in his state to walk a mile a day. He agreed to do the same. And jokingly (?) asked RFK to be his personal trainer. The 'weigh-in' stuff was a riff on that." Fluoride-free dentristy is on the rise. Here's what experts say. Even if the governor wasn't outwardly bothered by the comments, body image experts say it's important for public figures to avoid statements like these. Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar, regional medical director at the Eating Recovery Center, previously told USA TODAY that comments about someone's body don't just impact that person, but "every single person that lives in a body." And anyone can struggle with negative body image, no matter their size, Alexis Conason, a clinical psychologist and author of 'The Diet-Free Revolution,' previously told USA TODAY. Because of this, she says it's best to avoid commenting on people's bodies. "Your body is no one else's business, and if someone comments on your body, it's more a reflection of them," she said. Wassenaar said commenting on someone's weight promotes the idea that someone's appearance is the most important thing about them: "It just reinforces that sort of superficial, body-focused idea that we know is so painful and harmful for every single one of us because we are so much more than this vessel that carries us." If you or someone you know is struggling with body image or eating concerns, the National Eating Disorders Association's toll-free and confidential helpline is available by phone or text at 1-800-931-2237 or by click-to-chat message at For 24/7 crisis situations, text "NEDA" to 741-741. Contributing: Charles Trepany This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: RFK Jr. fat shaming West Virginia's governor is a big deal. Here's why.
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Here's How To Talk To Your Kids About "Bigorexia" — A Scary Disorder That's On The Rise In Young Men
Parents today are generally aware of mental health conditions that relate to body image, including common disorders like anorexia. But experts warn a lesser-known issue is on the rise, particularly among boys: muscle dysmorphia, aka 'bigorexia.' 'Bigorexia is a psychological condition and type of body dysmorphic disorder which involves a distorted self-image that focuses specifically on muscle size and physical appearance,' Kara Becker, a certified eating disorder therapist and national director of eating disorder programs at Newport Healthcare, told HuffPost. With bigorexia, the afflicted person is obsessed with becoming more muscular and preoccupied with the idea that their body isn't brawny enough ― even if they actually have the physique of a bodybuilder. 'Individuals may have an inaccurate view of their bodies, often believing they are smaller or less muscular,' said Amy Gooding, a clinical psychologist at Eating Recovery Center, Baltimore. 'This belief and subsequent preoccupation can lead to unhealthy behaviors, including obsessive exercise, and may lead to changing one's eating to be as lean as possible.' Although muscle dysmorphia can affect anyone, it's more common in males, and research suggests the disorder is on the rise. A 2019 study indicated that 22% of adolescent boys engaged in 'muscularity-oriented disordered eating behaviors' in an attempt to bulk up or gain weight and found that supplements, dietary changes, and even steroid use were common among young adult males. 'Eating disorders in boys are often under-recognized and under-diagnosed, said Jason Nagata, a pediatrician specializing in eating disorders in boys and men, who co-authored the study. He noted that a recent Canadian study found that hospitalizations for eating disorders in male patients had risen dramatically since 2002. 'While there's more awareness around eating disorders, muscle dysmorphia can be overlooked for several reasons ― one reason being that it can lead to behaviors often encouraged in the weight room,' Gooding said. 'Lack of awareness of the disorder may lead to the disorder being missed in someone who is struggling, as this is one of the less well-known disorders. Those who struggle may hesitate to reach out for help due to shame, secrecy, or the normalization of the behaviors in the community.' What's fueling the rise of bigorexia in kids and young adults? 'There are many potential causes and influences, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that can contribute to the development of this disorder,' Becker said. 'A family history of mental health conditions, especially disorders related to body image or anxiety, may increase the chance of developing bigorexia. Likewise, people with low self-esteem, perfectionism, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are more vulnerable to developing this disorder.' Trauma and bullying are potential risk factors for bigorexia as well. 'Bodybuilders and other people who lift weights are at a higher risk than the general population,' Nagata said. 'Competitive athletes are more at risk than noncompetitive athletes. Athletes who lift weights to change the appearance of their bodies are at higher risk than those who focus on improving performance.' The experts who spoke to HuffPost agreed that one of the biggest factors contributing to the rise of bigorexia is the proliferation of social media. 'Not only are young people consuming body ideals from the media, but they feel pressure to produce content and display their own bodies on social media,' Nagata said. 'Men's bodies are on display more than ever on social media, especially through influencer accounts. Constant comparisons to these idealized bodies may lead to body dissatisfaction and bigorexia.' The overemphasis on an idealized physical appearance in media and advertising is particularly harmful for younger boys, who might not fully appreciate that influencers and celebrities actually make their livelihood off images of their bodies. It's a different reality that is unattainable (not to mention undesirable) for most people. 'TikTokers and other social media influencers are making millions of dollars by getting likes and followers, which they then invest in professional trainers, full-time chefs, and other experts to curate and maintain their image,' said Joseph J. Trunzo, a psychology professor and associate director of the School of Health & Behavioral Sciences at Bryant University in Rhode Island. He pointed to celebrities such as Hugh Jackman, who has trained for hours a day and even undergone supervised dehydration regimens to transform his body for screen roles. 'Most 15-year-old kids' do not think about these facts when they see images of Jackman looking ripped and instead might develop dissatisfaction with their own bodies, he explained. And that's not even taking into consideration the misleading role of filters, angles, poses, makeup, and editing in those images. 'Influencers may take thousands of images and pick the best one, with the best lighting or enhancements, to curate the ideal version of themselves,' Trunzo added. 'None of it is real. In short, we are constantly exposed to unrealistic, idealized, and glamorized versions of the human body at a rate that we have never experienced before. In the hands of an impressionable young person, this is a very dangerous dynamic and recipe for psychological disaster.' Comment sections also expose posters and viewers to harsh critiques about people's bodies, which can fuel more insecurity and low self-esteem. 'For those struggling with muscle dysmorphia, seeing pictures and messaging on social media may cause a person to have harmful thoughts about the need to change their body,' Gooding said. 'They may start to train more in the gym and worry about losing body fat to enhance their muscular bodies. Soon this training becomes excessive and obsessive.' What can parents do? There are many ways parents can help counteract the forces that fuel body image issues and psychological disorders like bigorexia. 'Limit social media consumption as much as possible, but recognize that you cannot eliminate it altogether,' Trunzo advised. 'Your child will be exposed to these images, so talk to them about what they are seeing. Listen to what they say, how they interpret what they see, make sure they understand the reality behind what they are viewing and are not 'buying' the image.' He also recommended emphasizing values of human worth and dignity that go beyond physical appearance. Focus on qualities like kindness, creativity, humor, etc. 'It's important to provide support by creating a safe space for open conversations,' Becker said. 'Be a positive role model by demonstrating a healthy attitude toward your own body and self-esteem.' Pay attention to the comments you make about your own bodies in front of your children and the attitudes toward exercise and food you're displaying. Be mindful of the kinds of messages your kids are getting from their entertainment and social media activity. 'Parents should challenge unhealthy and unhelpful messaging about 'perfect bodies' and social acceptance,' Gooding advised. 'Body diversity should be discussed and praised. Conversations surrounding exercise should include messages about proper fueling, refueling, rest, and balance in workouts.' When images of buff celebrities appear on your child's radar, provide context. 'I've been having conversations with my 9-year-old son like, 'Let's read what Hugh Jackman said about what he had to do to transform into Wolverine and look like this,'' said therapist Cherie Miller, who is CEO and clinical director at Nourished Soul Center for Healing. 'It's a chance to say, 'You know, this isn't normal, this isn't realistic, and this is not something that we should try to attain.'' She focuses on 'body respect' ― reminding her children that we care about our bodies and want to take care of them, so we do things like drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, and eating a variety of foods. The goal is to avoid extremes and know that bodies are great because of the functions they serve in helping us live our lives. 'Talking about body diversity as a good and natural thing is important too,' Miller said. 'Life would be boring if we all looked the same. So isn't it great that we come at all sizes and shapes and colors. Look at all the different plants and animals in the world too.' If parents believe their child is being bullied or teased about their appearance, they should take action. 'Early intervention and treatment are vital to stopping the progression of muscle dysmorphia,' Gooding said. 'If a parent recognizes behavior that may cause concern for the child, parents should engage in conversation with their child about the thought process surrounding their exercise behavior.' Nagata shared some typical warning signs for muscle dysmorphia, urging parents to take note if their child develops a preoccupation or obsession with weight, food, exercise, or appearance in a manner that 'worsens their quality of life and impairs their social, school or daily functioning.' 'For instance, some boys spend all of their waking hours exercising and feel guilty if they are not at the gym,' he said. 'They may no longer eat with their families or friends because of rigid concerns about their nutrition and diet.' If you suspect your child is starting to struggle with bigorexia, know that they are not alone and there are resources that can help. 'Boys with muscle dysmorphia or eating disorders should seek professional help,' Nagata said. 'They can discuss these issues with a primary care pediatrician. Eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia are best supported by an interdisciplinary team including a mental health, medical, and nutrition provider.' Many professionals specialize in the treatment of body dysmorphia and even specifically muscle dysmorphia. Your child can learn to identify triggers, understand their thought process, and learn ways to cope. 'The earlier this is dealt with, the better,' Trunzo said. 'Left unchecked, the consequences can be life-altering.' This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Here's How To Talk To Your Kids About "Bigorexia" — A Scary Disorder That's On The Rise In Young Men
Parents today are generally aware of mental health conditions that relate to body image, including common disorders like anorexia. But experts warn a lesser-known issue is on the rise, particularly among boys: muscle dysmorphia, aka 'bigorexia.' 'Bigorexia is a psychological condition and type of body dysmorphic disorder which involves a distorted self-image that focuses specifically on muscle size and physical appearance,' Kara Becker, a certified eating disorder therapist and national director of eating disorder programs at Newport Healthcare, told HuffPost. With bigorexia, the afflicted person is obsessed with becoming more muscular and preoccupied with the idea that their body isn't brawny enough ― even if they actually have the physique of a bodybuilder. 'Individuals may have an inaccurate view of their bodies, often believing they are smaller or less muscular,' said Amy Gooding, a clinical psychologist at Eating Recovery Center, Baltimore. 'This belief and subsequent preoccupation can lead to unhealthy behaviors, including obsessive exercise, and may lead to changing one's eating to be as lean as possible.' Although muscle dysmorphia can affect anyone, it's more common in males, and research suggests the disorder is on the rise. A 2019 study indicated that 22% of adolescent boys engaged in 'muscularity-oriented disordered eating behaviors' in an attempt to bulk up or gain weight and found that supplements, dietary changes, and even steroid use were common among young adult males. 'Eating disorders in boys are often under-recognized and under-diagnosed, said Jason Nagata, a pediatrician specializing in eating disorders in boys and men, who co-authored the study. He noted that a recent Canadian study found that hospitalizations for eating disorders in male patients had risen dramatically since 2002. 'While there's more awareness around eating disorders, muscle dysmorphia can be overlooked for several reasons ― one reason being that it can lead to behaviors often encouraged in the weight room,' Gooding said. 'Lack of awareness of the disorder may lead to the disorder being missed in someone who is struggling, as this is one of the less well-known disorders. Those who struggle may hesitate to reach out for help due to shame, secrecy, or the normalization of the behaviors in the community.' What's fueling the rise of bigorexia in kids and young adults? 'There are many potential causes and influences, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that can contribute to the development of this disorder,' Becker said. 'A family history of mental health conditions, especially disorders related to body image or anxiety, may increase the chance of developing bigorexia. Likewise, people with low self-esteem, perfectionism, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are more vulnerable to developing this disorder.' Trauma and bullying are potential risk factors for bigorexia as well. 'Bodybuilders and other people who lift weights are at a higher risk than the general population,' Nagata said. 'Competitive athletes are more at risk than noncompetitive athletes. Athletes who lift weights to change the appearance of their bodies are at higher risk than those who focus on improving performance.' The experts who spoke to HuffPost agreed that one of the biggest factors contributing to the rise of bigorexia is the proliferation of social media. 'Not only are young people consuming body ideals from the media, but they feel pressure to produce content and display their own bodies on social media,' Nagata said. 'Men's bodies are on display more than ever on social media, especially through influencer accounts. Constant comparisons to these idealized bodies may lead to body dissatisfaction and bigorexia.' The overemphasis on an idealized physical appearance in media and advertising is particularly harmful for younger boys, who might not fully appreciate that influencers and celebrities actually make their livelihood off images of their bodies. It's a different reality that is unattainable (not to mention undesirable) for most people. 'TikTokers and other social media influencers are making millions of dollars by getting likes and followers, which they then invest in professional trainers, full-time chefs, and other experts to curate and maintain their image,' said Joseph J. Trunzo, a psychology professor and associate director of the School of Health & Behavioral Sciences at Bryant University in Rhode Island. He pointed to celebrities such as Hugh Jackman, who has trained for hours a day and even undergone supervised dehydration regimens to transform his body for screen roles. 'Most 15-year-old kids' do not think about these facts when they see images of Jackman looking ripped and instead might develop dissatisfaction with their own bodies, he explained. And that's not even taking into consideration the misleading role of filters, angles, poses, makeup, and editing in those images. 'Influencers may take thousands of images and pick the best one, with the best lighting or enhancements, to curate the ideal version of themselves,' Trunzo added. 'None of it is real. In short, we are constantly exposed to unrealistic, idealized, and glamorized versions of the human body at a rate that we have never experienced before. In the hands of an impressionable young person, this is a very dangerous dynamic and recipe for psychological disaster.' Comment sections also expose posters and viewers to harsh critiques about people's bodies, which can fuel more insecurity and low self-esteem. 'For those struggling with muscle dysmorphia, seeing pictures and messaging on social media may cause a person to have harmful thoughts about the need to change their body,' Gooding said. 'They may start to train more in the gym and worry about losing body fat to enhance their muscular bodies. Soon this training becomes excessive and obsessive.' What can parents do? There are many ways parents can help counteract the forces that fuel body image issues and psychological disorders like bigorexia. 'Limit social media consumption as much as possible, but recognize that you cannot eliminate it altogether,' Trunzo advised. 'Your child will be exposed to these images, so talk to them about what they are seeing. Listen to what they say, how they interpret what they see, make sure they understand the reality behind what they are viewing and are not 'buying' the image.' He also recommended emphasizing values of human worth and dignity that go beyond physical appearance. Focus on qualities like kindness, creativity, humor, etc. 'It's important to provide support by creating a safe space for open conversations,' Becker said. 'Be a positive role model by demonstrating a healthy attitude toward your own body and self-esteem.' Pay attention to the comments you make about your own bodies in front of your children and the attitudes toward exercise and food you're displaying. Be mindful of the kinds of messages your kids are getting from their entertainment and social media activity. 'Parents should challenge unhealthy and unhelpful messaging about 'perfect bodies' and social acceptance,' Gooding advised. 'Body diversity should be discussed and praised. Conversations surrounding exercise should include messages about proper fueling, refueling, rest, and balance in workouts.' When images of buff celebrities appear on your child's radar, provide context. 'I've been having conversations with my 9-year-old son like, 'Let's read what Hugh Jackman said about what he had to do to transform into Wolverine and look like this,'' said therapist Cherie Miller, who is CEO and clinical director at Nourished Soul Center for Healing. 'It's a chance to say, 'You know, this isn't normal, this isn't realistic, and this is not something that we should try to attain.'' She focuses on 'body respect' ― reminding her children that we care about our bodies and want to take care of them, so we do things like drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, and eating a variety of foods. The goal is to avoid extremes and know that bodies are great because of the functions they serve in helping us live our lives. 'Talking about body diversity as a good and natural thing is important too,' Miller said. 'Life would be boring if we all looked the same. So isn't it great that we come at all sizes and shapes and colors. Look at all the different plants and animals in the world too.' If parents believe their child is being bullied or teased about their appearance, they should take action. 'Early intervention and treatment are vital to stopping the progression of muscle dysmorphia,' Gooding said. 'If a parent recognizes behavior that may cause concern for the child, parents should engage in conversation with their child about the thought process surrounding their exercise behavior.' Nagata shared some typical warning signs for muscle dysmorphia, urging parents to take note if their child develops a preoccupation or obsession with weight, food, exercise, or appearance in a manner that 'worsens their quality of life and impairs their social, school or daily functioning.' 'For instance, some boys spend all of their waking hours exercising and feel guilty if they are not at the gym,' he said. 'They may no longer eat with their families or friends because of rigid concerns about their nutrition and diet.' If you suspect your child is starting to struggle with bigorexia, know that they are not alone and there are resources that can help. 'Boys with muscle dysmorphia or eating disorders should seek professional help,' Nagata said. 'They can discuss these issues with a primary care pediatrician. Eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia are best supported by an interdisciplinary team including a mental health, medical, and nutrition provider.' Many professionals specialize in the treatment of body dysmorphia and even specifically muscle dysmorphia. Your child can learn to identify triggers, understand their thought process, and learn ways to cope. 'The earlier this is dealt with, the better,' Trunzo said. 'Left unchecked, the consequences can be life-altering.' This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Buzz Feed
17-03-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
Here's How To Talk To Your Kids About "Bigorexia" — A Scary Disorder That's On The Rise In Young Men
Parents today are generally aware of mental health conditions that relate to body image, including common disorders like anorexia. But experts warn a lesser-known issue is on the rise, particularly among boys: muscle dysmorphia, aka 'bigorexia.' 'Bigorexia is a psychological condition and type of body dysmorphic disorder which involves a distorted self-image that focuses specifically on muscle size and physical appearance,' Kara Becker, a certified eating disorder therapist and national director of eating disorder programs at Newport Healthcare, told HuffPost. With bigorexia, the afflicted person is obsessed with becoming more muscular and preoccupied with the idea that their body isn't brawny enough ― even if they actually have the physique of a bodybuilder. 'Individuals may have an inaccurate view of their bodies, often believing they are smaller or less muscular,' said Amy Gooding, a clinical psychologist at Eating Recovery Center, Baltimore. 'This belief and subsequent preoccupation can lead to unhealthy behaviors, including obsessive exercise, and may lead to changing one's eating to be as lean as possible.' Although muscle dysmorphia can affect anyone, it's more common in males, and research suggests the disorder is on the rise. A 2019 study indicated that 22% of adolescent boys engaged in 'muscularity-oriented disordered eating behaviors' in an attempt to bulk up or gain weight and found that supplements, dietary changes, and even steroid use were common among young adult males. 'Eating disorders in boys are often under-recognized and under-diagnosed, said Jason Nagata, a pediatrician specializing in eating disorders in boys and men, who co-authored the study. He noted that a recent Canadian study found that hospitalizations for eating disorders in male patients had risen dramatically since 2002. 'While there's more awareness around eating disorders, muscle dysmorphia can be overlooked for several reasons ― one reason being that it can lead to behaviors often encouraged in the weight room,' Gooding said. 'Lack of awareness of the disorder may lead to the disorder being missed in someone who is struggling, as this is one of the less well-known disorders. Those who struggle may hesitate to reach out for help due to shame, secrecy, or the normalization of the behaviors in the community.' What's fueling the rise of bigorexia in kids and young adults? 'There are many potential causes and influences, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that can contribute to the development of this disorder,' Becker said. 'A family history of mental health conditions, especially disorders related to body image or anxiety, may increase the chance of developing bigorexia. Likewise, people with low self-esteem, perfectionism, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are more vulnerable to developing this disorder.' Trauma and bullying are potential risk factors for bigorexia as well. 'Bodybuilders and other people who lift weights are at a higher risk than the general population,' Nagata said. 'Competitive athletes are more at risk than noncompetitive athletes. Athletes who lift weights to change the appearance of their bodies are at higher risk than those who focus on improving performance.' The experts who spoke to HuffPost agreed that one of the biggest factors contributing to the rise of bigorexia is the proliferation of social media. 'Not only are young people consuming body ideals from the media, but they feel pressure to produce content and display their own bodies on social media,' Nagata said. 'Men's bodies are on display more than ever on social media, especially through influencer accounts. Constant comparisons to these idealized bodies may lead to body dissatisfaction and bigorexia.' The overemphasis on an idealized physical appearance in media and advertising is particularly harmful for younger boys, who might not fully appreciate that influencers and celebrities actually make their livelihood off images of their bodies. It's a different reality that is unattainable (not to mention undesirable) for most people. 'TikTokers and other social media influencers are making millions of dollars by getting likes and followers, which they then invest in professional trainers, full-time chefs, and other experts to curate and maintain their image,' said Joseph J. Trunzo, a psychology professor and associate director of the School of Health & Behavioral Sciences at Bryant University in Rhode Island. He pointed to celebrities such as Hugh Jackman, who has trained for hours a day and even undergone supervised dehydration regimens to transform his body for screen roles. 'Most 15-year-old kids' do not think about these facts when they see images of Jackman looking ripped and instead might develop dissatisfaction with their own bodies, he explained. And that's not even taking into consideration the misleading role of filters, angles, poses, makeup, and editing in those images. 'Influencers may take thousands of images and pick the best one, with the best lighting or enhancements, to curate the ideal version of themselves,' Trunzo added. 'None of it is real. In short, we are constantly exposed to unrealistic, idealized, and glamorized versions of the human body at a rate that we have never experienced before. In the hands of an impressionable young person, this is a very dangerous dynamic and recipe for psychological disaster.' Comment sections also expose posters and viewers to harsh critiques about people's bodies, which can fuel more insecurity and low self-esteem. 'For those struggling with muscle dysmorphia, seeing pictures and messaging on social media may cause a person to have harmful thoughts about the need to change their body,' Gooding said. 'They may start to train more in the gym and worry about losing body fat to enhance their muscular bodies. Soon this training becomes excessive and obsessive.' What can parents do? There are many ways parents can help counteract the forces that fuel body image issues and psychological disorders like bigorexia. 'Limit social media consumption as much as possible, but recognize that you cannot eliminate it altogether,' Trunzo advised. 'Your child will be exposed to these images, so talk to them about what they are seeing. Listen to what they say, how they interpret what they see, make sure they understand the reality behind what they are viewing and are not 'buying' the image.' He also recommended emphasizing values of human worth and dignity that go beyond physical appearance. Focus on qualities like kindness, creativity, humor, etc. 'It's important to provide support by creating a safe space for open conversations,' Becker said. 'Be a positive role model by demonstrating a healthy attitude toward your own body and self-esteem.' Pay attention to the comments you make about your own bodies in front of your children and the attitudes toward exercise and food you're displaying. Be mindful of the kinds of messages your kids are getting from their entertainment and social media activity. 'Parents should challenge unhealthy and unhelpful messaging about 'perfect bodies' and social acceptance,' Gooding advised. 'Body diversity should be discussed and praised. Conversations surrounding exercise should include messages about proper fueling, refueling, rest, and balance in workouts.' When images of buff celebrities appear on your child's radar, provide context. 'I've been having conversations with my 9-year-old son like, 'Let's read what Hugh Jackman said about what he had to do to transform into Wolverine and look like this,'' said therapist Cherie Miller, who is CEO and clinical director at Nourished Soul Center for Healing. 'It's a chance to say, 'You know, this isn't normal, this isn't realistic, and this is not something that we should try to attain.'' She focuses on 'body respect' ― reminding her children that we care about our bodies and want to take care of them, so we do things like drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, and eating a variety of foods. The goal is to avoid extremes and know that bodies are great because of the functions they serve in helping us live our lives. 'Talking about body diversity as a good and natural thing is important too,' Miller said. 'Life would be boring if we all looked the same. So isn't it great that we come at all sizes and shapes and colors. Look at all the different plants and animals in the world too.' If parents believe their child is being bullied or teased about their appearance, they should take action. 'Early intervention and treatment are vital to stopping the progression of muscle dysmorphia,' Gooding said. 'If a parent recognizes behavior that may cause concern for the child, parents should engage in conversation with their child about the thought process surrounding their exercise behavior.' Nagata shared some typical warning signs for muscle dysmorphia, urging parents to take note if their child develops a preoccupation or obsession with weight, food, exercise, or appearance in a manner that 'worsens their quality of life and impairs their social, school or daily functioning.' 'For instance, some boys spend all of their waking hours exercising and feel guilty if they are not at the gym,' he said. 'They may no longer eat with their families or friends because of rigid concerns about their nutrition and diet.' If you suspect your child is starting to struggle with bigorexia, know that they are not alone and there are resources that can help. 'Boys with muscle dysmorphia or eating disorders should seek professional help,' Nagata said. 'They can discuss these issues with a primary care pediatrician. Eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia are best supported by an interdisciplinary team including a mental health, medical, and nutrition provider.' Many professionals specialize in the treatment of body dysmorphia and even specifically muscle dysmorphia. Your child can learn to identify triggers, understand their thought process, and learn ways to cope. 'The earlier this is dealt with, the better,' Trunzo said. 'Left unchecked, the consequences can be life-altering.'
