When we think of eating disorders, the image that often comes to mind is typically associated with women. However, men struggle with eating disorders too, and often in silence. The stigma surrounding men’s mental health, combined with societal expectations of masculinity, has kept the conversation about male eating disorders in the shadows for too long. It’s time to break the silence and recognise that eating disorders are not limited by gender.

In this blog post, we will explore the unique challenges men face with eating disorders, how these disorders manifest, and why understanding and addressing them is critical for men’s mental health.

Eating disorders affect an estimated 10million men at some point in their lives. Despite the prevalence, eating disorders in men are often undiagnosed and under-treated. Men represent about 25% of those with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorders, yet they are much less likely to seek treatment than women. This disparity is due, in part, to misconceptions about eating disorders being a “female issue” and the pressure on men to appear strong and invulnerable.

Just like women, men can suffer from a range of eating disorders. While the underlying causes and behaviours are often similar, the way these disorders manifest in men can sometimes differ due to social and cultural factors.

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is characterised by extreme food restriction, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. In men, anorexia can sometimes be driven by a desire for leanness or achieving a certain muscular physique rather than thinness alone.

Men with anorexia may over-exercise or engage in extreme dieting to reduce body fat. The disorder often begins with preoccupation with fitness or health but can spiral into dangerous and obsessive behaviours that severely impact physical and mental health.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging behaviours, such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or using laxatives to prevent weight gain. In men, bulimia may arise from pressure to meet certain body ideals, particularly in competitive sports or fitness industries where physique is closely scrutinised.

Men with bulimia may engage in binge eating in secret and feel intense guilt or shame afterward. This secrecy can make it difficult for loved ones to recognise the disorder and for men to seek help.

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder among men. It involves eating large amounts of food in a short period while feeling a loss of control over eating. Unlike bulimia, people with BED do not purge after a binge, which can lead to weight gain and associated health problems.

For men, binge eating disorder often serves as a way to cope with stress, loneliness, or unresolved emotions. Because overeating is sometimes socially accepted or even encouraged in male circles, recognising binge eating as a disorder can be difficult.

Muscle Dysmorphia

While not officially classified as an eating disorder, muscle dysmorphia, also known as “bigorexia,” is a form of body dysmorphic disorder that primarily affects men. It involves an obsession with becoming more muscular, leading to extreme behaviours such as overexercising, excessive protein consumption, and in some cases, steroid abuse.

Men with muscle dysmorphia may perceive themselves as too small or weak, even if they are physically fit or muscular. This disorder is common among men who feel pressure to conform to societal ideals of masculinity, which often equate strength and size with value.

The underdiagnosis of eating disorders in men stems from several factors, including:

1. Cultural Expectations and Stigma

Men are often socialised to avoid discussing their emotions and struggles. The societal message that men must be “tough” and “in control” discourages them from seeking help, especially for mental health issues like eating disorders. This stigma prevents many men from recognising their symptoms or admitting they have a problem.

2. Misconceptions About Eating Disorders

Because eating disorders are commonly portrayed as affecting young, thin women, healthcare providers, family members, and even men themselves may not recognise the signs of an eating disorder in a male patient. As a result, men are less likely to be diagnosed early and may suffer for longer periods without intervention.

3. Different Manifestations

In men, eating disorders may not always present in the same way they do in women. For example, a man with anorexia may focus on achieving a lean, muscular body rather than extreme thinness. Similarly, men with bulimia may purge through excessive exercise instead of more recognisable methods like vomiting. These variations can lead to misdiagnosis or the assumption that their behaviours are normal or healthy.