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Eating Disorders can Affect Anyone – Even Men

The month of June focuses on many important issues, and one of them is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month!

Sadly, there’s a common belief that men don’t experience eating disorders, which has made it difficult for men to have the space to talk about these concerns. This lack of acknowledgment can have profound repercussions because the effects of an eating disorder may worsen. Eating disorders within males may also look slightly different than cis females, especially if reverse anorexia and/or muscle dysmorphia are present.

How are male eating disorders different than female eating disorders?

  • Body Image Focus: Males with eating disorders often focus on muscle gain and achieving a lean, muscular physique rather than weight loss. This is sometimes referred to as “muscle dysmorphia” or “bigorexia,” where there’s an obsession with becoming more muscular.
  • Underdiagnosis and Stigma: Eating disorders in males are frequently underdiagnosed because they are traditionally seen as a “female issue.” This leads to a lack of recognition and a delay in seeking treatment. The stigma surrounding males with eating disorders further exacerbates this problem.
  • Behavioral Differences: While females might engage in behaviors like restrictive eating, bingeing, or purging, males are more likely to over-exercise as a means of controlling their body shape. This compulsive exercise is often aimed at achieving a particular body type, driven by societal pressures.
  • Psychological Distress: Males with eating disorders might experience significant psychological distress related to their body image, but this distress can manifest differently. They may be less likely to express concerns about weight and more likely to focus on muscle tone or physical appearance.

How to Tell if a Male Has an Eating Disorder – Common Signs & Symptoms

  • Wearing baggy clothing and/or laying clothes to hide body
  • Obsession with building muscle
  • Isolating self from social events, especially ones involving food
  • Binging episodes

How to treat eating disorders in men and boys:

Effective treatment for males often needs to address specific issues like body image related to musculature and the impact of societal norms on male body ideals. Awareness and education about the unique aspects of male eating disorders are crucial for appropriate support and recovery. As dietitian nutritionists, we believe awareness and education about how men and adolescent boys are affected by disordered eating, anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, and more is key to early interventions and treatments.

There is no shame in asking for help – we want you to feel strong and confident in your body. Feel free to reach out to one of our expert dietitians to add them to your support circle!

Book Here:

Build strength, confidence, and a healthier relationship with food through outpatient eating disorder nutrition counseling in the St. Louis area. Online and in-person appointments are available with expert dietitian nutritionists at Branz Nutrition Counseling.

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