Jenna Berntsen’s Post

Athletes are more likely to struggle with eating disorders, and the risk is even more pronounced for female athletes. It's common for serious athletes to have rigid eating and exercise habits, especially when they're in season. And if you know about eating disorders, you probably know that rigid rules and restrictions can be a slippery slope to harmful habits. The line between intense training and obsessive exercise can get blurred — as can the line between a strict nutrition plan and disordered eating.  These are a few of the key risks athletes face: 🏅 Pressure to succeed: Athletes often experience immense pressure to perform at high levels, which can lead to an unhealthy focus on body weight and shape as a means to enhance performance.  🏅Pressure to weigh or look a certain way: All athletes can experience appearance pressures, but it can be particularly pronounced for those involved in sports that emphasize aesthetics (like gymnastics and figure skating) or require athletes to compete in specific weight classes (like wrestling and rowing). 🏅Pressure to keep it all together: Being an athlete, especially at a competitive level, can come with a lot of stress: busy schedules, competition, injuries, and extreme highs and lows. This added stress can also become a trigger for disordered behaviors. But it's also 100% possible for athletes to maintain a healthy relationship with food, exercise, and their body while still performing at the highest levels. Understanding the risks outlined above can empower professionals in the athletic and healthcare fields to better support athletes and address these challenges proactively. To spread awareness about eating disorders in athletes, forward this article to coaches, trainers, and doctors in your network: https://lnkd.in/geNzJrD5