anorexia athletica


A disorder seen in competitive athletics, in which excess exercise is used for weight loss, often associated with anorexia nervosa

an·o·re·xia ath·let·i·ca

(an'ŏ-rek'sē-ă ath-let'i-kă) Continuum of subclinical eating behaviors of athletes who do not meet the criteria for a true eating disorder, but who practice at least one unhealthful method of weight control (e.g., fasting, vomiting, or use of diet pills, laxatives, or diuretics).

anorexia athletica

, athletic anorexia A compulsion to exercise, often coupled with reduced caloric intake, and, ultimately, failing health, recurrent injuries, and other impairments. The condition is more common in women than in men but not exclusively found in women. See: anorexia nervosa; female athlete triadSee also: anorexia