One million men in the U.S. have bulimia nervosa, anorexia or a binge-eating disorder.
These conditions are strong forces that do not sexually discriminate, said Dr. Steve Crawford, associate director of theCenter for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt in Towson.
Eating orders are rapidly spreading among males and destroying their bodies.
Discussing men’s closeted obsessions over their muscle and fat measurements is key to eliminating misconceptions and getting male patients help, he said.
“By talking openly and honestly about male body image and eating disorders, we hope that the issue is taken more seriously and trivializing terms such as ‘manorexia’ and ‘bigorexia’ are eradicated,” Crawford said.
For information on Shepard Pratt’s center and other local treatment programs and support groups, visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.
Men with food issues
» Eat large amounts of food when they are not hungry
» Eat much more rapidly than normal
» Lack a sense of control while bingeing
» Hoard food in hidden spots
» Eat alone or in secret
» Eat throughout the day without planned mealtimes
Source: National Eating Disorders Association
