Orthorexia Nervosa in Bodybuilders: Exploring a Critical Research Gap and the Role of Social Media and Self-Monitoring Applications

Bodybuilding aims to achieve a muscular physique through intensive resistance training and strict dietary control. Athletes in this sport could be at risk of disordered eating behaviors; however, limited evidence exists regarding its association with ON. Social media use and Weight-Related Self-Monitoring (WRSM) applications may contribute to ON symptoms by reinforcing rigid dietary behaviors. These aspects remain underexplored in the current literature, particularly within the sporting context. This narrative review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the potential association between bodybuilding and ON, and to examine the influence of social media and weight-related self-monitoring (WRSM) applications on its development. Literature searches included the terms “bodybuilding AND orthorexia nervosa”, “bodybuilding AND eating disorders”, “bodybuilding AND social media”, “bodybuilding AND aesthetic pressure”, “orthorexia nervosa”, “orthorexia nervosa AND social media”, “fitness influencers” and “orthorexia nervosa in sport”. Available evidence suggests that bodybuilders may present risk factors for orthorexic tendencies, including dietary rigidity, body image centrality, perfectionism, and compulsive exercise. Social media may contribute by promoting unrealistic aesthetic standards, potentially reinforcing disordered eating patterns. Although direct data in bodybuilding are limited, findings indicate a plausible vulnerability profile. Monitoring and preventive strategies may be warranted to reduce the risk of onset or exacerbation of comorbid eating disorders.