Eating Disorders and College Athletes: Understanding the Struggles and Finding Solutions

Authored by Mandy Kryzsiak, MSS Candidate and The Understory Group Intern

As the pressures of being a college athlete mount, the physical and mental demands often take a toll. One of the most serious challenges that some athletes face is eating disorders. These conditions, while commonly associated with societal beauty standards, are increasingly becoming a significant issue in the world of sports, where body composition, weight management, and performance are heavily emphasized. 

Why Are College Athletes Vulnerable to Eating Disorders? 

College athletes are particularly vulnerable to eating disorders for several reasons: 

1. Pressure to Maintain Certain Body Types:

Many sports require athletes to adhere to strict weight standards, whether it’s to maintain speed, agility, or strength. Athletes in sports like wrestling, equestrians, gymnastics, or distance running often feel immense pressure to maintain a specific weight for performance. 

2. Increased Focus on Appearance: 

With social media and the overall culture placing heavy emphasis on physical appearance, athletes may feel the need to “look the part.” This can lead to unhealthy eating habits and a distorted sense of body image.

3. The Intensity of Training: 

The sheer amount of time and energy devoted to training and competition can leave athletes with little time or energy to focus on balanced nutrition. 

4. The Desire for Control:

In a high-pressure environment, eating disorders often serve as a way for athletes to gain control when so much of their lives feel dictated by coaches, teams, and competitions. Restricting food intake or engaging in unhealthy eating habits might feel like the one thing they can control. 

Signs of Eating Disorders in Athletes 

Preoccupation with food, weight, and body image:

Constantly talking about weight or engaging in obsessive food-related behaviors. 

Mood swings, irritability, or depression:

The emotional toll of eating disorders often manifests as mood disturbances, anxiety, or depression. 

How Eating Disorders Affect Performance 

Although many athletes might believe that disordered eating habits will enhance their performance, the reality is often the opposite. Eating disorders can severely affect an athlete's physical and mental health, leading to: 

Decreased energy and stamina:

Poor nutrition reduces an athlete's ability to perform at their peak. 

Increased risk of injury:

Lack of proper nutrition weakens bones, muscles, and tissues, making athletes more susceptible to fractures and injuries. 

Hormonal imbalances:

Athletes who menstruate, in particular, may experience irregular periods or amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation), which is often linked to low body fat and poor nutrition. This can lead to long-term health consequences like infertility or osteoporosis. 

Mental health struggles:

Disordered eating can lead to depression, anxiety, and a decreased sense of self-worth, which only exacerbates the cycle. 

Addressing Eating Disorders in College Athletes 

1. Education and Awareness: 

Coaches, trainers, and athletic staff should be educated about the signs of eating disorders and the impact they can have on an athlete’s health. Open discussions about mental and physical health are essential in creating a supportive environment. 

2. Access to Professional Support:

College athletes should have access to counselors, nutritionists, and mental health professionals who are trained to address eating disorders. These experts can provide the resources necessary to help athletes maintain both mental and physical well-being. 

3. Promoting Healthy Body Image: 

Encouraging athletes to focus on their physical capabilities rather than appearance can help foster a healthier relationship with food and exercise. Coaches should emphasize the importance of fueling the body for performance. 

4. Fostering Open Communication: 

Creating a culture where athletes feel comfortable discussing their struggles, whether physical or mental, is key. Encouraging an open dialogue between athletes, coaches, and health professionals will create a supportive community that can intervene early. 

Conclusion 

Eating disorders are a serious issue among college athletes, and their impact can be long-lasting. However, with education, awareness, and the right resources, athletes can receive the help they need to overcome these challenges. Prioritizing mental health and proper nutrition not only ensures athletes’ long-term success but also allows them to achieve their fullest potential both on and off the field. Colleges and universities must make it a priority to create environments that support athletes in all aspects of their well-being, recognizing that performance is not just about physical strength but also mental resilience and balance.