Body dissatisfaction, eating disorders in athletes and the nutritional approach: narrative review

Abstract

In today’s society the physical appearance facilitates the insertion in different environments including sports, so athletes face pressures to maintain a weight and body silhouette, not achieving it generates them body dissatisfaction (IC) and therefore an increased risk of developing eating disorders (TCA). The prevalence of ACT in athletes is estimated to be between 14% and 15% worldwide. The athlete who has CI and/or TCA performs excessive sports practices to control body weight and/or decrease fat percentage, which can also be related to a decrease in sports performance and a decrease in their quality of life. Therefore, the objective of this study was to perform a narrative review of HF and TCA in athletes and to consider the nutritional approach in this population. According to the evidence provided by the evaluated studies, strategies should be indicated focused on strengthening the positive body image in the athlete, including the sports field, such as the trainer, doctor, psychologist and nutritionist in order to strengthen their performance, physical and mental health.