Eating disorders are more common in boys and men than is generally known — about 30 percent of all those suffering from an eating disorder are male. Males generally have similar symptoms to females, particularly those with anorexia. Men suffering from bulimia often use running as a compensatory mechanism, but many also purge. Binge eating disorder is almost as common in males as females.
Signs of Male Anorexia and Bulimia
- Reducing calorie intake and rapid weight loss
- Purging and other inappropriate forms of compensation, such as diuretics or laxatives
- Exercise is commonly abused as a means of compensatory behavior
- The focus of exercise moves from enjoyment of the activity towards an obsession with reducing calorie intake or reshaping the body
Male Eating Disorder Effects and Treatment
Exercise concurrent with eating disorder behaviors (restricting food, purging, binging, etc.) is medically dangerous. These behaviors cause injury to the heart and cardiovascular system, and the body is functioning on severely decreased or imbalanced energy, vitamin and mineral sources.
The treatment for men is similar to that of women. Men suffering from an eating disorder will be best served by a multidisciplinary treatment team consisting of clinicians and medical doctors specifically trained to support healing of the mind and body. CCED is able to offer this support team to all clients.