Bigorexia: Can Exercise Go Too Far?

Points By: Andrew Wade

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Conditions on the Disordered Eating spectrum typically appear as habits with genuine intentions taken to an unhealthy extreme. This can be why they are initially hard to diagnose- where do we draw the line?

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Bigorexia nervosa is a body dysmorphic disorder characterized by an individual's desire to have minimal fat mass alongside an obsession with increasing lean muscle mass. Wanting to get stronger and leaner, these things sound positive, or at least harmless right? Unfortunately, as this is taken to the extreme, the health of the habits is taken into question. Too much of anything, even exercise, can become a bad thing in some cases.

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Patients with Bigorexia will begin exercising excessively, often multiple times per day, eating obsessively, extremely restricted and patterned with imbalanced focus on key ingredients, and sometimes abuse supplements as well as performance-enhancing drugs. 

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These individuals are often praised for their commitment and level of fitness, but have sacrificed other parts of their health in this pursuit. Bigorexia can even be life threatening. Too many individuals have passed in their 20s and 30s, often from heart attacks, suicide, or accidental medication overdose leading to liver or kidney failure.

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"He who dies biggest wins" is a quote tossed around the bodybuilding world, prodding at the willingness to sacrifice health and longevity in the name of mass. Is this impressive or awful?

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The allure of Bigorexia lies in the pursuit of an idealized body image, often fueled by societal pressures and media representations of what it means to be fit and attractive. However, the reality is far from glamorous. As a society, we must also challenge the narrative that bigger is always better in the fitness world. 

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Bigorexia not only takes a toll on physical health but also mental well-being. The constant obsession with body size and muscle mass can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Relationships suffer as well, as the focus shifts entirely to workouts, dieting, and supplement regimes.

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What starts as a seemingly positive goal of getting fit and strong spirals into a dangerous obsession with appearance and performance. The line between dedication and disorder becomes blurred, and the consequences can be devastating.

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It's crucial to recognize the signs of Bigorexia early on and seek professional help. Therapy, support groups, and medical intervention can provide individuals with the tools to manage their disorder and prioritize health over unrealistic ideals.

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If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these thoughts or feelings, please reach out to talk to someone. We are here to chat about any feeling, big or small. To speak to a registered dietitian, reach out to scheduling@casespecificnutrition.com

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For a Crisis Hotline, dial 988.

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