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How to help the athlete with bulimia: practical tips and a case study
1SportsMedicine Brookline, MA 02167.
International Journal of Sport Nutrition
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Many athletes struggle with bulimia nervosa, often without professional help. This article provides nutrition professionals with strategies and a case study to aid in athlete recovery from binge eating and purging behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Sports Nutrition
- Eating Disorders
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Bulimic eating behaviors affect a significant percentage of athletes, ranging from 8% to 41%.
- Many athletes experiencing bulimia nervosa do not seek or receive professional treatment.
- Compulsive exercise can be a purging behavior in athletes with bulimia nervosa.
Observation:
- A case study details a triathlete exhibiting binge eating followed by purging through excessive exercise.
- The athlete presented with common food and weight concerns associated with bulimia nervosa.
- A nutrition care plan was developed to address these specific concerns.
Findings:
- Key priorities for the nutrition care plan included reducing weight preoccupation, establishing regular eating patterns, and addressing the root causes of bingeing.
- Nutrition counseling is a component of a comprehensive treatment approach.
- Collaboration among a team of health professionals is crucial for athlete recovery.
Implications:
- Nutrition professionals can implement targeted counseling strategies to support athletes with bulimia nervosa.
- Integrated care involving multiple health disciplines improves outcomes for athletes with eating disorders.
- Early intervention and professional support are vital for athletes struggling with bulimia nervosa and compulsive exercise.