Tailored treatments could help athletes with eating disorders, says study

An eating disorder in an athlete can remain hidden or invisible, and that is where it wreaks havoc

Athletes face an increased risk for eating disorders, and a treatment program tailored to their specific needs can help them regain a healthy relationship with food, a small study suggests.

Researchers tested a program developed to focus on psychology and nutrition in helping athletes with their body image — as an athlete and in society — as well as understanding the role of food as fuel for their body, the study team writes in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

“Disordered eating and eating disorders actually sabotage the one thing athletes are in pursuit of, which is athletic performance,”