Compared to straight men, gay men are more likely to diet and binge eat and they may even be at greater risk for eating disorders than straight women[6]. One contributing factor is that the gay subculture tends to emphasize the idealized hyper-masculine male physique. The pursuit of this ideal can lead to excessive exercise and the use of substances such as anabolic steroids and certain supplements that can adversely affect health. [7]
Adolescents and young adults presenting with an eating disorder may have an underlying conflict related to sexual orientation. [1]
Healthcare providers should ask their LGBT clients about:
body image
history of dieting
excessive exericse
use of diet products and supplements
and whether they feel pressures within the LGBT community to conform to certain notions of body image.
_________________________________
1. Peterkin A, Risdon C. Caring for Lesbian and Gay People: A Clinical Guide. 2003. University of Toronto Press Incorporated. Toronto, Ontario.
6. Lee R. Health care problems of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender patients. Western Journal of Medicine. 2000;172:403-408.
7. Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA). 2002. Ten things gay men should discuss with their health care providers. http://www.glma.org/news/releases/n02071710gaythings.shtml accessed: February 9, 2006