Common Disorders in the Fight World
Eating Disorders Part Two
To this day is still amazes me how prominent eating disorders are within the fight world, and within BOTH women and men.
It is just unfortunate that it is a hard topic to be able to speak about… or fighters just do not know what’s going on.
Let me help explain. There is a reason is eating disorder(s) – plural. The most common I have found are ARFID (Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake), Bulimia, Body Dysmorphia, Binge Eating, Rumination (chewing but not swallowing), Purging (much like Bulimia however using laxatives etc to remove).
Now these are just to name a few that are prevalent within this fight world. And it is something I want you to be aware of.
Let us starts with ARFID.
What is it?
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), known as ‘picky eating’. .
Related to the fight world?
Without the professional guidance, any individual can jump on google old doctor google and become the next ‘Nutritionist’ in one weekend. Or read up on Wiki to get the latest info on how carbs are bad when needing to make weight… then leading you on to drop essential nutrients thinking it’s the right thing to do… causing major issues.
Physical side effects
Stomach cramps, other non-specific gastrointestinal complaints (constipation, acid reflux, etc.)
Menstrual irregularities
Cognitive inability (lack of focus)
Deficiencies such as anaemia, low thyroid and hormone levels, low potassium, low blood cell counts, slow heart rate and the list goes on.
Vertigo
Irregular body temperatures
Acne, psoriasis, dry skin
Poor bone health, muscle weakness, slow wound healing
Impaired immune system
The Next most common fight world eating disorder?
Bulimia…. Now this I suffered with personally, and let me tell you, it takes control.
I had put myself to the point of just being able to think about purging my meals and being able to do it without forcing…
What is it?
Bulimia is described by constant binge eating episodes, followed by behaviours to remove the food forcefully through vomiting, laxatives etc.
How does it relate to the fight world?
Ever put yourself on such a restrictive diet, that as soon as it gets to the weekend, its an absolute free-for-all? Yep…
Ever just completely given up on what you know and just eaten for the sake of eating, then purging to rid the weight right before weighing in? Yep…
Physical effects:
· ‘Burnt’ Throat, indigestion, heartburn, reflux.
Inflammation, potential oesophagus ruptures
Ulcers in either the stomach or the intestinal tract
Disturbed bowel movements
Osteoporosis (bones becoming extremely brittle and weak)
Loss of menstrual cycle
Hormonal imbalances
Potential infertility damage for both men and women
Irregular heartbeats, potential heart issues / failure in the extreme
Rotting teeth
If you have made it this far…then well done! If this has spoken to you, then please reach out.
Now you may be thinking… Red, how the F*CK am I meant to get away from this.
Step 1: Realising thought patterns.
- If something is concerning you, write it down. Journal the thought, journal the trigger.
o Was it the food?
o Was it a comment from an opponent, mate, coach or stranger?
o Was it the complete and utter confusion of what nutrition is ideal for your situation, and how to manipulate that for your best performance?
Step 2: Bring someone along with you on the journey.
- This someone can be anyone you trust. If you feel as though you might be judged by a friend, tell your coach, if you’re afraid to tell your coach, talk to your family, if you want to keep it from the world to “look strong and invincible” consult a professional who will keep it confidential.
Step 3: Educate yourself
- Read SCHOLARLY ARTICLES... none of this wiki sh*t.. no Doctor google… educate yourself through someone with the prior study, industry experience, knowledge on the effects, understanding and empathy on the situation and so forth.
Step 4: Implementation
- Find your triggers. Don’t avoid them. Be wary of them. Understand them and start to implement tricks as to how to manage.
o Big Red’s Tips
§ Conversation? If you find yourself getting pent up with anxiety over a conversation about making weight, then remove yourself.
§ Food? Not sure if having that sweet potato for dinner is ok. Read up on it. Find out what slow-release carbohydrates are. How they are used for performance, how nutritionists and dietician manipulate them to ensure you are creating an effective hormone response through insulin receptors
Step 5: Seek professional advice.
- A conversation is free. Health should be accessible. Find yourself someone that you can trust, who you know has an understand and education, and can help to guide you through the process on a more intricate level.
To be continued….