Males have always been a part of society’s beauty standards with a lean and muscular body. To achieve such a body, men tend to spend hours in the gym and follow strict diets.

However, going overboard with body obsession can have serious consequences on health and well-being.

What is Body Obsession?

Body obsession refers to an unhealthy preoccupation with one’s body shape, size, and weight. This can lead to negative emotional consequences as people become fixated on their perceived flaws.

In men, body obsession is often associated with muscle dysmorphia, a subtype of body dysmorphic disorder, which is characterized by a distorted perception of one’s body shape and size. Men with muscle dysmorphia feel that they do not have enough muscle mass and therefore spend a significant amount of time exercising, consuming protein supplements, and following a strict diet.

Risks Associated with Male Body Obsession

Male body obsession can have severe consequences that can affect overall health and well-being.

Mental Health Risks

Obsession with body image can lead to severe mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

Men with a preoccupation with their bodies are more likely to use anabolic steroids and other muscle-enhancing drugs that are associated with various psychological problems like mood swings and aggression.

Physical Health Risks

Body obsession can have negative effects on physical health. Men with muscle dysmorphia often adopt unhealthy behaviors, such as excessive exercise and dietary restrictions, which can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and strain on the body.

In addition, men who use muscle-enhancing drugs often face the risk of liver, kidney, and heart damage.

Related Article The hazards of body dysmorphia in men

Social Risks

Men with body obsession may experience social problems like isolation and relationship difficulties. They may avoid social gatherings that involve food or drinks or miss out on quality time with loved ones due to their strict diet and exercise regime.

They might also struggle with intimacy as they are often self-conscious and insecure about their bodies.

Financial Risks

The desire to achieve the perfect body can result in significant financial expenses on gym memberships, supplements, and other fitness-related products.

Men with muscle dysmorphia may also lose income if they prioritize their obsession over work or become unable to function properly due to their strict fitness regime.

Behavioral Risks

Body obsession can lead to obsessive-compulsive behaviors such as constantly checking the mirror, obsessively weighing oneself, and developing unhealthy eating habits.

Men with muscle dysmorphia may also exhibit aggressive behaviors that put them or others at risk.

Conclusion

In summary, male body obsession can have severe consequences that go beyond achieving the perfect body shape. It can impact mental, physical, social, financial, and behavioral health.

It’s essential to recognize the early signs of body dysmorphia and seek professional help to achieve a healthy and balanced lifestyle.