When people think of eating disorders, they often imagine thin teenage girls struggling with food restriction or obsession over their weight. But the reality is far more complex—and deeply misunderstood. Eating disorders in men are real, underdiagnosed, and tragically under-discussed. Despite growing research, cultural myths continue to portray these disorders as primarily female issues, leaving countless men to suffer in silence.
This silence isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. The prevalence of eating disorders in men is rising, particularly among young men, athletes, and those exposed to heightened body image concerns through social media, fitness culture, or trauma. To address the growing crisis, we must break down the stigma and reframe the conversation around masculinity, mental health, and disordered eating.
The Hidden Face of Male Eating Disorders
Contrary to outdated stereotypes, men can and do experience all the major eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. They may engage in purging, laxative abuse, compulsive exercise, or restrictive dieting—but they’re often less likely to seek help. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) does not limit eating disorders by gender, yet cultural messaging still places the burden of identification and treatment on women.
Studies, including work by Nagata, Griffiths, Mond, and Mitchison, have revealed that men—especially adolescent boys and adolescent males—frequently report symptoms of body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and preoccupation with body weight or shape. Yet their symptoms often go unnoticed or misdiagnosed in clinical settings due to provider bias and a lack of gender-specific screening tools.
Unique Forms of Disordered Eating in Men
While some men exhibit classic signs of thinness-driven disorders like anorexia, many struggle with a less recognized variant: muscle dysmorphia, a form of body dysmorphic disorder. This condition is marked by an obsessive belief that one’s muscularity is insufficient, even when already fit or muscular. The behaviors associated with muscle dysmorphia often include:
- Extreme weightlifting routines
- Use of anabolic steroids or unregulated supplements
- Constant checking of the male body in mirrors
- Strict dietary regimens focused on leanness and weight gain
- Severe distress when unable to exercise
This pursuit of the “ideal” body—often inspired by media, bodybuilding culture, and social pressures—can lead to eating disorder symptoms that are masked by what’s perceived as discipline or health-consciousness.
The Role of Social Media and Masculinity
In the digital age, social media amplifies unrealistic ideals of the male body. Platforms filled with curated images of hyper-muscular, lean men can contribute to body dissatisfaction and trigger disordered eating behaviors. These pressures are intensified for heterosexual men who feel a need to conform to rigid masculinity standards, and for transgender individuals navigating complex identity and body relationships.
Masculinity often discourages emotional vulnerability, making it difficult for men to express concerns about body image, mental illness, or eating disorder symptoms. For many, seeking help may feel like an admission of weakness—a perspective rooted in toxic gender norms and societal ignorance.
Recognizing the Symptoms in Men
Eating disorders in men may manifest differently than in women. They may be more focused on muscle gain or leanness rather than weight loss. They may also co-occur with substance use, such as excessive supplement use or steroid abuse. Common signs include:
- Preoccupation with diet, food, or body shape
- Obsession with weightlifting or excessive exercise
- Mood changes, depression, or social withdrawal
- Repeated cycles of binge eating and guilt
- Avoidance of meals or social eating settings
- Using food as a way to cope with mental health issues
Additionally, men with comorbidity—such as anxiety, depression, or trauma—may be at a higher risk for developing or hiding eating disorders.
Medical and Psychological Consequences
The effects of eating disorders are not gender-specific. Men with untreated disorders can suffer from severe health problems, including:
- Malnutrition and weight loss
- Irregular heart rhythms or organ failure
- Osteoporosis and reduced testosterone levels
- Digestive issues and withdrawal symptoms from stimulant use
- Depression, suicidal ideation, or worsening mental health
Without early intervention, these symptoms can become chronic or life-threatening. This is why awareness and early diagnosis are so critical—particularly in men who may not even recognize their symptoms as problematic.
Barriers to Diagnosis and Treatment
Despite the severity of the condition, male eating disorders are often missed by healthcare providers. Many eating disorder treatment programs are tailored toward women and don’t reflect the distinct experiences or needs of men. Screening tools may fail to identify muscle dysmorphia, and men may downplay or hide their symptoms to avoid stigma.
According to the National Eating Disorders Association, men represent one in three individuals with an eating disorder, yet they are far less likely to be formally diagnosed or referred to appropriate care. This diagnostic gap has been highlighted in publications like the Journal of Eating Disorders, which calls for inclusive, gender-sensitive approaches to detection and treatment.
Improving Awareness and Reducing Stigma
Education is a powerful tool in dismantling the stigma surrounding eating disorders in men. Raising public awareness, encouraging honest dialogue, and providing training for healthcare professionals can bridge the gap in care. Campaigns targeting adolescent boys, fitness communities, and even pediatrics can help identify risk factors early on.
More inclusive definitions of body ideals, masculinity, and health are essential. It’s time we challenge the myth that eating disorders are only a “female issue” and recognize that disordered eating behaviors exist across all genders and identities.
Evidence-Based Treatment and Recovery
Fortunately, effective treatment for male eating disorders exists. Most successful approaches involve eating disorder treatment that includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Nutrition rehabilitation and education
- Addressing underlying body image concerns and trauma
- Family therapy and support systems
- Relapse prevention and mental health maintenance
For those struggling with muscle dysmorphia, targeted therapy around self-esteem, identity, and masculinity is often key. Healthcare providers must be trained to ask gender-sensitive questions and create spaces where men feel safe expressing vulnerability.
Getting Help with We Conquer Together
At We Conquer Together, we believe that no one should feel invisible in their struggle with eating disorders. Our mission is to support those facing male eating disorders, mental health challenges, and recovery from disordered eating behaviors. Through community, resources, and a shared commitment to healing, we help individuals of all backgrounds—including young men, athletes, and those navigating complex body image issues—find hope and clarity.
If you or a loved one is struggling with binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, or muscle dysmorphia, reach out today. Together, we can rewrite the narrative—and conquer what’s holding you back.
