Disordered eating attitudes and Orthorexia Nervosa in Canadian elite athlete populations

Abstract

Background: Disordered eating attitudes (DEAs) refer to a continuum of abnormal feeding and eating behaviours (Sundgot-Borgen & Torstviet, 2010). The prevalence of DEAs in elite athletes is greater than that of non-athletes, due in part to sport performance demands. A newly recognized DEA, orthorexia nervosa (ON), may reflect the eating behaviours of some elite athletes (Haman, Barker-Ruchti, Patriksson, & Lindgren, 2015). Objective: The research aims to determine the prevalence of DEAs and ON in Canadian elite athlete populations. In addition, an exploratory factor analysis was performed to understand the validity of the ORTO-15. Methods: 72 male and female athletes were recruited from Canadian Sport Institutes and National Sport Organizations. A demographic survey and two questionnaires, the EAT-26 and the ORTO-15, were completed online via SimpleSurvey. Results: The study found the prevalence of DEAs and ON to be 13.9% and 75% respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of DEAs and ON in the study is considerably high. Findings can be presented to key stakeholders to educate them on the topic. Developing prevention and treatment protocol for DEAs and ON will contribute to the health and performance of Canada’s elite athletes.