What eating disorder is characterized by significant caloric intake reduction due to weight gain fears?

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a significant reduction in caloric intake. Individuals suffering from this eating disorder often have a distorted body image, which leads them to see themselves as overweight even when they are underweight. This condition involves restrictive eating behaviors and can result in severe physical health problems due to the lack of essential nutrients.

Those with anorexia nervosa may engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, and other behaviors to prevent weight gain, which can further exacerbate their fear of overweight and contribute to psychological distress. Understanding the fundamental basis of this disorder is critical for recognizing its serious implications on both physical and mental health. This knowledge is essential in the field of kinesiology, as professionals need to be equipped to support and manage clients with such complex conditions.