Teen Athlete’s Anorexia Journey
An exploration of eating disorders in athletes and how sports can shape recovery and identity.
Dhriti Kapadam
3/6/20261 min read
The association between thinness and health in our society affects many people. A surprising demographic impacted by this association is athletes. Athletes often share characteristics with individuals who are considered at higher risk of developing eating disorders. According to ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders & Severe Malnutrition, approximately 45% of female athletes and 19% of male athletes struggle with an eating disorder (Jeana Cost, 2025).
Though being thin and lean may seem worth it in the sports world where physique is thoroughly critiqued, it negatively affects athletic performance. Athletes suffering from eating disorders may experience significant underperformance because of low energy associated with eating disorders, loss of fat and lean mass, dehydration, and electrolyte disturbance. (Kate Ringwood)
To better understand how eating disorders affect athletic performance, we interviewed a 16 year old girl located in Southern California who has a passion for hockey. We explored how her experience with eating disorders and body dysmorphia impacted her performance in hockey and the role her sport played in her recovery process.
