Sub-clinical eating disorder characteristics among male and female triathletes

Abstract

The characteristics of sub-clinical eating disorders were assessed in 583 male and female triathletes. We found that 28% of the females and 11% of the males scored below the mid-point of the range for the Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26) construct Preoccupation with Food and Weight, and respectively 39% and 23% scored below the mid-point of the range for the construct Calorie Control. All of the subjects indicated dissatisfaction with their actual body mass index (BMI). The study participants revealed attempts to reduce body weight by means of energy restriction, severe limitation of food groups and excessive exercise, in addition to controlling their food intake on the basis of strict dietary rules. The triathlon seems to be a sport that is susceptible to a higher prevalence of disordered eating. Further studies are needed to investigate its real prevalence and the factors contributing to it.