LOUISE V TAYLOR EXAMINES THE RISE OF EATING DISORDERS IN THE LGBT COMMUNITY AND ASKS WHAT WE CAN DO

Recent years have seen an alarming rise in the number of people suffering from eating disorders. Research on the topic among LGBT people is mixed, but there is a consensus that we are significantly affected.

THE RESEARCH

The International Journal Of Eating Disorders shows that lesbians who describe themselves as feminine have roughly the same risk of developing an eating disorder as their heterosexual peers. However, it found that those who consider their gender expression as masculine are on average less likely to develop eating disorders. It suggests that, overall, lesbians are more likely to reject western body image ideals than heterosexual women, and also tend to experience less body dissatisfaction. However, there’s statistically a higher risk of binge eating and purging among LGBT young people, even from the age of 12, perhaps in a response to puberty, anxiety or low self-esteem.

What’s more, a study by Drexel University found that bisexual women, or those who are exploring their sexuality, may have a higher risk of developing eating disorder symptoms than women who are either straight or gay. The researchers added that, in their study, there was no significant difference in the risk between gay or straight women – contradicting earlier research. Research in The International Journal Of Eating Disorders also suggests that trans people – who often experience body dysmorphia – are particularly vulnerable and at risk.