ATT: Dancers with Eating Disorders! Anything to contribute?

I'm a dancer and in ways I admit to having an eating disorder. I take diet pills, I only drink water or fruit juices, and I have stopped entirely eating chocolate, candy, or sugar and instead eat fruits, veggies, chicken and shrimp. I know my diet lacks in protein and other vital supplements, but to stay flexible and thin I keep eating this way. And I eat tiny portions spread through the day so I don't become hungry.

But with it I sleep a lot, (about 12 hours a day), and I'm constantly thirsty. When it comes to practice and performing I depend on adrenalin for energy.

My teachers encourage us to be healthy but set no weight limit or appearance.

My skills have increased in grace and balance, but duration and focus has decreased.

When watching other performances I will notice th hevier set one, but as anyone performs their heart out I immediatly notice.

Now I know I have a serious problem with my eating habits and I am constantly working out and practicing. But at least I'm not anorexic or belemic.

First of all, I want to say that my ED was in no way caused by ballet or dancing at all. In fact, scientists are studying the link between EDs and genetics, which I believe does exist as both my mom and little sister are eating disordered as well (and they aren't dancers). I have always been a bit weird about food.

*How has your ED affected your dancing skills?

It hasn't really. Sometimes I get tired or my muscles cramp up, but I'm not sure it is actually related. I find that the smaller I am the easier it is for me to move...I have more flexibility and am lighter on my feet.

*What are your energy/strength levels like?

I am very strong. Energy depends on my attitude, what I eat for breakfast (yes, girls with EDs do eat...they just don't eat enough), if I take my vitamins, if I drink caffeine, how much sleep I get, etc. Overall I'd say its a normal energy level. Some days I'm completely exhausted.

*Are you encouraged by teachers or peers to reach a minimal weight?

No. I am encouraged by the mirror and comparing myself to others. I must say though, it is not just about weight. It is a control thing.

*Do you feel the general public enjoys watching a thin dancer, or a dancer of "average weight" who dances passionately?

Well I have heard them comment before about fat dancers looking bad, when I actually thought those girls were amazing at dancing and put so much expression and passion into their role. Of course it is more aesthetically pleasing to the average person if the dancer is extremely thin. You can't hide anything in tights, right? (Of course, there are people with unusual tastes who think overweight or even obese people are more beautiful, but we're talking the average audience member.)

oh... I dont know... im a dancer and im a normal weight for my height... but in the dance world i consider myself fat. i personally hate the way heavier dancer look on stage and it grosses me to see fat jiggling around when they move. so I am really trying to loose some wight this season. I also think if you are heavier it would be harder to move and you would get more tired faster. but then again.... i think its wonderful to see anyone no matter what they look like to be dancing passionately....