Editorial: Eating disorders and eating disorder awareness

* Sociocultural standards promoting idealized appearance and the objectification of women's bodies are consistently linked to negative body image outcomes and an increased desire for cosmetic surgery. Research suggests that body image flexibility may act as a protective factor in reducing the desire for cosmetic surgery.* Bariatric surgery is considered the most potent treatment for obesity and is believed to alleviate the symptoms of food addiction. A study of 78 patients found that bariatric surgery significantly and rapidly reduces food addiction scores, with improvements sustained for up to two years. * While most food addiction symptoms remitted quickly, social/interpersonal problems, hazardous use, and large amount/longer use showed delayed improvement, suggesting distinct mechanisms for behavioral persistence. * A systematic review showed that written emotional disclosure intervention is effective in alleviating eating disorder symptoms and improving patients' body image problems. * Scurvy, a rare disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, can occur in individuals with restrictive eating disorders like Anorexia Nervosa (AN), leading to severe health complications. Patients with co-occurring AN and scurvy often present with gastrointestinal, psychiatric, and dermatological symptoms.* The Chinese version of the Orthorexia Nervosa Inventory (ONI) was found to possess ** strong reliability and validity**, making it a promising tool for assessing orthorexia tendencies and behaviors.Eating Disorders in Athletes * The demanding physical requirements of football, which often involve maintaining a specific physique, can lead to harmful eating behaviors among professional female players due to internal and external pressures. * Cultural norms influence the prevalence and types of eating disorders, with differences in eating habits, beauty standards, and socio-cultural pressures affecting their development.* A study on Polish and Turkish professional female football players found no nationality-based differences in eating disorder prevalence, but found the disorder to be widespread, affecting about 40% of players. * Nutritional status impacts ED risk, with higher risk found among both underweight and overweight players.* A case study of an orienteering athlete with Anorexia Nervosa highlighted the critical importance of continuous monitoring, timely intervention, and a coordinated multidisciplinary team in addressing eating disorders in athletes.This research topic underscores the significance of effective communication among healthcare professionals and the necessity for comprehensive treatment strategies that include psychological, nutritional, and medical support in eating disorders. The studies collectively highlight the importance of early detection, suitable intervention, and the prevention of long-term health complications for effective eating disorder prevention.