The search for “fit” can be expensive and make you see flaws that don’t even exist in your body
Worrying about your appearance is normal, after all, who wouldn’t want to look in the mirror and really love what they see? Nowadays, the bodybuilding trend gives us exactly this message: it is possible to get the body we desire.
But in this regard it is necessary to raise an alarm signal. Especially if this concern manifests itself by focusing on one or more defects that do not even exist, or are subtle, in such a way as to cause severe distress, compromise functional capacity and characterize body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
A fine line between healthy and messy
Look, we’re not saying you shouldn’t make an effort to change what’s bothering you physically. However, we need to understand to what extent these complaints are real and when they become an obsession. “Muscle dysmorphic disorder (DISMUS) is a subtype of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) described by DSM-IV-TR. This disorder mainly affects men and is characterized by excessive concern with body size and muscle development,” explains physical educator Rodrigo Kiura.
Signs of body dissatisfaction often manifest themselves through concerns about the shape and size of muscles and the amount of body fat. “Affected individuals may resort to excessive physical exercise, the use of ergogenic substances and high-protein diets in search of ever greater muscle mass, even when they already have visible hypertrophy”, adds the professional.
“This excessive concern with appearance can cause significant harm in social, workplace, and other areas important to the individual.”
It is not so easy to recognize the disorder
Because it is directly associated with a healthy practice, it is not always easy to recognize, in the context of bodybuilding, when simple dissatisfaction is becoming an obsession, which can interfere with everyday life. “When social life is focused solely on appearance and the pursuit of optimal performance, and worry about small flaws or imperfections becomes a source of significant distress or impairs functional capacity, this may indicate a deeper problem,” warns Kiura.
In these cases, the trainer emphasizes that it is important to consider and take care of not only the physical aspects, but also the underlying psychological problems that may contribute to this excessive concern for appearance. “Mental and emotional health must be prioritized alongside physical well-being.”
Don’t fall into traps, not everything we see is real…
In fact, very few of the bodies we see on the Internet actually exist. Or they even exist, but they achieved that shape in other ways than just training and eating, as is advertised. I’m sure you’re already sick of seeing so many posts from people with “form”‘perfect on Instagram. But what few talk about is that the underworld of gyms hides – and often romanticizes – the use of anabolic steroids.
This reality, in addition to deceiving many people who do not really know how that practitioner achieved such a result, can also put many people at risk in the name of image. “We have observed that, in the context of muscle dysmorphic disorder, affected people are often unaware of the problem and may be influenced by unscrupulous or misinformed professionals, who promote the use of prohibited ergogenic substances,” Kiura points out.
What about body supplements?
We should not confuse dietary supplements and anabolic steroids, as they are different substances.
- Food supplements: We target these products to address nutritional deficiencies or provide additional substrates for individuals seeking high performance.
- Anabolic Steroids: They are prohibited substances, the indiscriminate use of which is harmful.
“We allow the use of anabolic steroids only in specific cases. As in medical treatment for diagnosed conditions, for example, and not for performance enhancement,” explains the professional.
Even if allowed, accountability is required
Even regarding the use of supplements, such as whey protein, the trainer finds it worrying that many professionals recommend them in a superficial, irresponsible and hasty way. We prescribe and use these substances with care and appropriate professional supervision, taking into account individual needs and potential risks to mental and physical health. “Otherwise, excessive use of supplements may, in fact, contribute to the development or worsening of vigoroxia disorder.”
A mix of ignorance and hunger for profit
Kiura acknowledges that the incidence of body dysmorphia cases in gyms is remarkably high these days. Especially considering that many physical educators, who should have in-depth knowledge of ergogenics – the use of performance-enhancing substances – may recklessly encourage or enable the irresponsible use of this practice by student/athletes. “The lack of knowledge on the part of these professionals makes it difficult to identify whether an individual suffers from this disorder,” he warns.
It also draws attention to a worrying trend of greed in some industries. “Including nutritionists, physical educators, endocrine specialists, among others, who promote the rampant sale of supplements, even to people who do not need them. Which can contribute to the development or worsening of dysmorphic disorders,” concludes the professional.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
