Eating Behaviors, Weight Loss Methods, and Nutrition Practices Among High School Wrestlers

Wrestlers lose weight frequently, using rapid weight reduction methods in order to qualify for a certain weight classification. Under these conditions, the potential for developing eating disorders seems apparent. A questionnaire was used to evaluate binge eating and bulimic behaviors, nutrition practices, and weight loss methods in 716 wrestlers. Subjects lost 4.0 kg, on average, to certify, and cycled (lost and regained) 2.3 kg weekly. Two-thirds gained weight in the postseason. The most frequently used weight loss methods included increased exercise, food restriction, gradual dieting, and heated wrestling rooms. Subjects relied primarily on coaches and fellow wrestlers for sources of weight management. Using symptom severity levels by Hawkins and Clement (1980) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (3rd ed.; DSM-III; American Psychiatric Association, 1980) criteria, 2.8% of subjects were classified as bulimic; 1.4% using DSM-III-R (3rd ed.; rev; American Psychiatric Association, 1987); and 1.4% met both DSM-III and DSM-III-R. There were significant differences between the diagnostic (DG) and nondiagnostic groups (NDG) in weight lost to certify, weekly weight fluctuation, postseason weight gain, and severity of binge eating. The DG used fasting, food and fluid restriction, dehydration methods, and laxatives significantly more often to promote weight loss. They also experienced significantly more negative feelings during and following binging. Implications for nursing research and clinical practice are also discussed.