Eating Disorder Research

It appears that female athletes in aesthetic sports — gymnastics, diving, cheerleading, figure skating, dancing — are at greater risk of developing an eating disorder.  Afterall, they are in a sport that is about body image.  Their personalities also put them in a higher risk category. Driven, focused, and people pleasers are typical profiles. Those obsessions can go far beyond the sports arena and may invade their lifestyle habits. The desire to excel can push them to take measures such as excessive exercising and weight loss to achieve the thin body shape that they think can help them get better scores. Colleges with athletic departments reported that they see an increasing problem. And it is a problem that they have no clear idea what to do. No one knows for sure why some female athletes cross from dieting and excessive exercise to cases of diagnosable eating disorders. It is believed however that a combination of genetic, social and environmental factors contribute to the eventual development of an eating disorder.

Remuda Ranch, is the largest inpatient treatment center for women and girls with eating disorders, reports eating disorders are more treatable than ever. Recovery rates are as high as 99 percent for adults  with anorexia and 93 percent for adults with bulimia. The same rates also apply for the adoscelent group. Patients report dramatic improvements in symptoms, anxiety and depression.  Edward Cumella, PhD, executive director of performance management at Remuda Ranch Programs for Eating Disorders said that  "recovery is very possible and treatment is often a life-changing event.  However, note that recovery as Remuda Ranch, defines does not mean a girl will never struggle with food related issues again.  It only indicates that she no longer has a diagnosable eating disorder.  Indications that she has overcome her eating disorders are seen in the improvements in her personal relationships as well as the ability to function effectively at work or in school. For more information, call 1-800-445-1900 or visit http://www.remudaranch.com .