ABSTRACT
For several decades, debate has ensued about whether athletes or non-athletes are at a greater risk of developing eating disorders (EDs). Athletes require fuel to achieve optimal performance. The current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual identifies the following clinical EDs: anorexia nervosa (AN); bulimia nervosa (BN), binge eating disorder (BED), and other specified feeding and eating disorder (OSFED). Researchers have sought to determine which athlete subgroups are at the greatest ED risk. Fortunately, research indicates that ED risk in athletes can be mitigated via structured ED prevention programs. To catch symptoms early, athletes’ annual physical examinations should include ED and RED-S screening. Regarding treatment, there is ample literature on what supports recovery in non-athlete populations. In summary, athletes experience sport-specific pressures and risks for EDs and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), due to emphasis on achieving top performance in competitive settings.
