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A female model strutting on the catwalk like a waif is probably the first image that comes when you hear the word eating disorder. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that, in the United States alone, five to ten million women and young girls are affected by common eating disorders, such as bulimia, binge eating disorder and anorexia nervosa. But even if the majority of those who suffer from eating disorders are women, men are not altogether spared from having this condition.

Figures show that over one million boys and men also suffer from eating problems. A study done by the University of Toronto found that at least one in every six individuals who suffer from anorexia is male. Many experts believe that the numbers are much higher because men are more afraid to seek help or discuss their eating problems with other people, particularly with their parents or doctors. Many feel that getting help for eating disorders is considered weak and feminine.

Major Reasons Why Some Men Succumb To Eating Disorders

Desire To Be More Competitive

For most boys, eating problems start because they want to be more competitive in sports. Since the expectations of parents and peers are high when it comes to performing physical activities, many boys are compelled to lose weight in order to be faster and more agile. Furthermore, losing weight will give bigger boys the competitive edge when it comes to wrestling and boxing because they will be able to compete in lighter weight divisions.

Eating disorders are not only seen in growing boys and men. In fact, even some professional athletes are urged by their coaches or managers to shed some pounds so that they would look better on the television and will be more attractive to advertisers. Usually, boys and men try to lose weight fast by, for example, not eating for days before weigh in or exercising too much.

Desire For Perfection

If you think that women are the only ones required to look perfect, guess again. Nowadays, boys and men are also expected to look their best. If you do not care about your appearance, you will end up being single for a long, long time. Furthermore, kids who are plump and heavy are increasingly becoming objects of bullying at school.

Before, muscle mass was more important than a leaner physique. But since many male celebrities are aiming to become thinner and slimmer, your average Joe naturally wants to follow the fad. However, instead of focusing on eating right and working out properly, many boys and men want a shortcut. So, they end up using unhealthy means that include smoking, taking illegal substances, and digging into habits that lead to eating disorders.

Gender Aspect

Since eating disorders are widely viewed as a feminine problem, gay men are increasingly becoming susceptible to such problems in their drive to become more physically attractive. Perhaps, having an eating problem makes them feel more like women than men. According to one study, about 20% of men who are facing anorexia nervosa, bulimia and other similar problems are gay.

If you are one of the men who want to lose weight, it would be best for you to achieve your weight goals naturally. Never ever resort to binge eating and other types of eating disorders. Paying attention to the types of food that you consume, sleeping well every night, drinking ample water and exercising regularly are helpful in making you shed some pounds safely. In order to jumpstart your weight loss, you can also try to use body sculpting products made for men which can help in toning your abs and other problematic areas, just like Dermacut. For more information about this product, go to http://www.dermacut.com/.