Early Warning Signs of Disordered Eating in Dancers and Athletes

In the world of dance and athletics, discipline, drive, and sacrifice are often celebrated as the cornerstones of high-level performance - and rightfully so. But for some, this dedication can quietly cross the line into maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors such as disordered eating. Recognizing the early signs can help athletes, parents, and coaches step in before disordered eating patterns become more serious.

1. Increased Food Rules and Anxiety Around Eating

Rigid food rules such as cutting out entire food groups, avoiding “processed” foods, or labeling foods as good and bad can signal an unhealthy preoccupation with eating “perfectly”. While these behaviors are often disguised as being “healthy” or “disciplined”, they can actually reflect underlying anxiety around food. If an athlete or dancer is constantly thinking about food in such a way that is taking away from their ability to focus, perform, and enjoy life, it may be an early sign of disordered eating.

2. Skipping Meals or “Saving Up” Calories for Later

A shift in eating patterns such as skipping meals, intentionally decreasing food intake, or avoiding certain foods/food groups is one of the most common red flags of disordered eating. Underfueling in this way can lead to low energy availability and eventually Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDS), which impacts both health and performance.

3. Preoccupation with Body Image or Weight

Frequent body checking (mirrors, reflections, or comparison with peers) and worry about “looking the part” can be indicators of body image distress. For athletes and dancers, appearance-based feedback from coaches or social media can intensify this pressure.

4. Decline in Performance, Energy, or Mood

While some athletes or dancers may experience an initial increase in performance when engaging in restrictive or disordered eating behaviors, this is often short-lived. Over time, the body simply can’t keep up without adequate fuel. A noticeable drop in energy levels, motivation, or overall mood can be a key sign that the body isn’t getting the nourishment it needs to perform and feel its best.

5. Loss of Menstrual Cycle

When a female athlete or dancer loses their period, it is a clear sign of inadequate nutrition. The body is signaling that it’s not getting enough energy to support basic functions. This hormonal disruption is not a sign of being “fit” or “dedicated”, but rather of the body being under significant stress. 

6. Using Exercise to “Earn” or “Burn Off” Food

Eating is not contingent on exercise. When exercise becomes a form of punishment or compensation, it’s no longer serving the body - it’s controlling it. Overtraining and underfueling for exercise are hallmark signs of a maladaptive relationship with food and exercise.

Supporting Athletes and Dancers with Compassion

If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, know that help is available — and that early support can make a big difference. Working with a Registered Dietitian who specializes in eating disorders and sports nutrition can help rebuild a balanced relationship with food while supporting both performance and overall well-being.

If this message resonated with you, you can learn more about my 1:1 nutrition counseling for athletes and dancers and book a free discovery call here.