Signs to look out for when weight watching is turning into something harmful
An athlete’s body is essential for performance. Not only are they required to keep it in good working order, but they can also feel the pressure to keep it looking a certain way. Athletes often watch and scrutinise their own bodies more closely than other people may. This scrutiny can become problematic.
Weight watching may be turning into something harmful if you are significantly restricting food intake, feeling overly tired, thinking or talking about appearance often, comparing what you eat to other people, fear gaining weight, making excuses about what you are eating or are eating in private.
All people benefit from a healthy diet and we all need differing amounts of nutrients and energy for our body to perform optimally. Unhealthy weight management habits can quickly result in you being unable to perform, hinder your future in your sport, and lead to permanent detrimental changes to body and brain functioning. More information about disordered eating can be found on the Butterfly Foundation website- www.thebutterflyfoundation.org.au
You cannot perform your best if you are not physically and mentally healthy. If you’re not sure if your nutrition is meeting your needs, consult a qualified sport dietitian. If your mind is stuck on thoughts about body image, or you don’t feel good about yourself for any reason, then talk to someone you know who cares about you, or consult a sport psychologist familiar with the demands of sport.