By Shoshana K. Goldberg — 2021
Despite recent legislative pushback, schools across the country are recognizing the important benefits of equal participation in sports for all young people, including transgender youth.
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CLEAR ALL
Conversations surrounding eating disorders, body image, and beauty standards are generally centered on the narratives of straight, cisgender* women. However, these conversations often exclude the experiences of many LGBT people who also struggle with body image concerns and disordered eating.
Eating disorders have historically been believed to primarily afflict heterosexual, affluent, cisgender, thin, white women.
What began as a proud assertion of identity has itself become a trope; the stereotype of a gay man now is one who goes to the gym and takes care of himself.
Body image is particularly important to discuss in the context of the LGBTQIA+ community, due to the prevalence of eating disorders and similar issues that disproportionately impact those who identify as LGBTQIA+.
You may have heard of an eating disorder called anorexia nervosa. People with anorexia nervosa drastically restrict the amount of food they eat. They have a distorted view of their body and an intense fear of weight gain. Over time, this behavior can lead to serious complications.
Athletes tend to be highly competitive and disciplined individuals who go to great lengths to excel in their sports.
Learn why eating disorders tend to occur in athletes, and what you can do to recognize and get help for sports-related anorexia and bulimia.
Body image issues are not unusual in athletes and can start at a young age. Negative consequences of poor body image include quitting sports, eating disorders, and low self esteem.
Body image can be described as your personal evaluation of self and others, based on body weight, shape, size, and appearance. It is connected to self-esteem and self-worth.
Sports nutrition is the foundation of athletic success. It is a well-designed nutrition plan that allows active adults and athletes to perform at their best.