Anorexia, a very serious and life-threatening eating disorder, appears to occur more commonly among the aesthetic sports, such as figure skating, gymnastics and cheerleading.
A growing concern regarding anorexia has become evident in the cheerleading realm. In fact, Gymnastics Australia has banned cheerleaders from wearing uniforms that expose their stomach. This decision may have been led to by research conducted that suggested cheerleaders who bared their stomachs in uniform were at a greater risk for developing eating disorders.
What is anorexia?
Anorexia is commonly used to describe the eating disorder anorexia nervosa, characterized by excessive dieting and calorie restriction to the point of emaciation. Anorexia, although it prevents physical symptoms, is thought of as a psychological disorder as the underlying cause is usually emotional.
What are the symptoms of anorexia?
Cheerleaders suffering from anorexia are likely to exhibit incredibly odd eating habits and behaviors. A cheerleader may have lost substantial amounts of weight in a relatively short period of time and may over-exercise. Cheerleaders suffering from anorexia are also likely to suffer from hair, skin and nail issues, such as dry, flaky skin, discolored skin, hair loss and brittle purple fingernail beds. Additionally, a cheerleader may exhibit the signs and symptoms of depression and may seem preoccupied with her weight and size.
What are the dangers of anorexia for cheerleaders?
Cheerleaders suffering from anorexia at are a much greater health risk than cheerleaders who practice healthy eating habits. Cheerleaders suffering from anorexia are likely to develop cardiac problems, which can be especially concerning when considering the intense demands of vigorous cheerleading routines on a cheerleader’s heart. Additionally, cheerleaders suffering from anorexia are much more likely to suffer from fatigue, muscle atrophy, dizziness and other health complications that can not only hinder their performance but endanger their lives.
What should be done if a cheerleader is suspected to have anorexia?
Anorexia is a very serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Suspicions of anorexia should be taken seriously every time and the cheerleader’s coach should be informed immediately. If the cheerleader does turn out to have anorexia, her coach can help her to approach her family about seeking the appropriate help and treatment.
*Samantha Van Vleet is a former high school athlete. She suffered from an eating disorder throughout her high school years and continues to speak out about the dangers of eating disorders.