The study collected information from 274 female undergraduates from a large university in the southeastern United States. The study divided participants into four groups: varsity athletes, club athletes, independent exercisers, and non-exercisers. The study explored whether differences existed among these groups regarding disordered eating symptoms and behaviors. Researchers found that women who worried about physical performance related to sports or exercise were more likely to displays symptoms of disordered eating and to have body dissatisfaction.
Jill Holm-Denoma, lead author of the study, commented:
"As women's participation in athletics increases, so too does the need for awareness of the link between eating disorders and sports participation among women. Coaches and athletic departments should consider consulting with clinicians to implement prevention and monitoring programs for the female athletes and independent exercisers at their universities."
(Source: ScienceDaily.com)
Posted By: jgarcia