Gay Male Body Image

Gay Men, Eating Disorders and Body Dysmorphic Disorder

I woke up one rainy Tuesday morning feeling under the weather and slightly blue. On my way to the the restroom I glanced into the mirror. One quick look at my butt- too big? A quick glance at my face: I need some eye cream. A pat on my stomach: Will I ever have a six pack?

Seemingly odd scenario? Not quite. Male body image issues are prevalent in the gay community. We all want to look our best, especially when socializing or courting that cute boy, but preoccupation with our bodies can lead to several dangers traditionally perceived to only be associated with women. Among the potential dangers are BDD (Body Dysmorphic Disorder) or a severe preoccupation with a slight defect in appearance, steroid use, muscle dysmorphia (in which men believe their muscles are too small), anorexia in both men and women, and physical insecurity.

Dr. Murray Drummond, men's health lecturer at the University of South Australia estimates that 5- 10% of people with eating disorders are men. And according to psychotherapist Abigail H. Natenshon, 20% of those men are gay.

Where do male body image issues originate?

There are many professional theories that pin-point modern advertisements and media campaigns that portray the ideal man as lean, muscular and fat-free, much in the same way women (including lesbians) have been pressured over the years. Majority of magazine covers (such as Men's Health) and billboards (like Calvin Klein) give the perception of the ideal and desired man as one perfectly fit. For years women have lived with the pressure to be as thin as a Vogue or runway model. Males are also more likely to have a body image disorder due to the pressures of sports and are more likely to induce vomiting because dieting is not a socially acceptable method of weight loss.

As a result, gays and lesbians alike flock to local spas to get a "mani" and a "pedi" and other treatments in an effort to look their best. The gyms are filled with gays vying for a spot in front of the mirror in hopes the last workout or protein shake has paid off.

Is a person's eagerness to stay fit and look good a bad thing?

Not necessarily. Staying fit and eating right can lead to a healthy lifestyle. Plus, who doesn't want to look their best? The problem arises when body image becomes a preoccupation that interferes with daily life, creating stress and anxiety.

So when is body image a problem?

If you find your anxiety and stress levels increasing over the way you feel about your physical appearance, consult a medical professional and seek help. Preoccupation with body image can lead to dangerous disorders such as anorexia.

Here's a quick male body image quiz to help you determine whether or not you have an eating disorder*:

• Are you always thinking of the nutritional value of the foods you eat?
• Do you feel angry or guilty when you eat "unhealthy" or "bad" foods?
• Do you use food for comfort?
• Do you constantly think about weight, body size?
• Have you ever induced vomiting?
• Are you happier when you lose weight?
• Do you think thinness equals happiness?

If you've answered yes to any or all of these questions and you feel preoccupied by your body image, consult a medical professional for an evaluation.

*Your Gay Life guide is not a medical professional and the advice given is not meant to replace a certified medical evaluation. Please consult a medical professional or your local health institution if you feel you may have an eating disorder.