4 min read
Massive Muscles - Learn About This Disorder!
Tomasz Jankowski
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Diets Premium Expert • 17.03.2026
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Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian:
This article has been peer-reviewed for adherence to IŻŻ, WHO, and PTGiP clinical nutritional standards.
| Diets Premium Expert Tomasz Jankowski | min read 4 min | Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian 17.03.2026 |
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Key Takeaways
Seeking the ultimate physique and adhering to a balanced diet are crucial aspects of contemporary lifestyles. Despite their beneficial impact on health, they can contribute to the development of muscle dysmorphia, a mental disorder also known as reverse anorexia. This condition affects one out of every ten physically active men, and its consequences can be severe. It's high time we paid special attention to it.
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What is bigorexia?
Bigorexia, also known as muscular dysmorphia, is a psychological disorder. This condition affects nearly 10% of bodybuilders, mainly men. Scientific research shows that the onset of bigorexia typically occurs at the end of puberty. The most common victims of this illness are people who have previously dealt with issues such as obesity, excessive fatigue, or social difficulties (difficulty in making contact with peers or a feeling of rejection). Muscular dysmorphia is also frequently found in individuals grappling with personal problems such as relationship disturbances with partner or family or complexes related to sexual functioning. Another common factor leading to the development of the disease is excessive stress, which is further exacerbated by the currently popular body cult.
How to Identify the Obsessive Desire for Muscularity?
The heart of bigorexia is the unrelenting desire for a perfect figure. Initially, workouts are primarily aimed at improving appearance and boosting self-confidence. However, this becomes problematic when bigorexics start losing their sense of reason, remaining dissatisfied with their bodies despite noticeable changes. Consequently, they develop compulsive training habits characterized by obsessive behaviors such as excessive physical activity and dietary restrictions. Importantly, bigorexics also experience personality changes.
Muscle mania and anabolic substances
In most cases of muscle mania, the affected individual may consider using muscle-building substances. These are primarily anabolic substances that are intended to promote muscle growth. They are usually only available on prescription, and their use is only allowed after medical examinations and under constant medical supervision. Unfortunately, people suffering from muscle mania often start using anabolic steroids on their own and use substances of unknown origin. Careless manipulation of testosterone levels can not only lead to changes in voice, slowed hair growth, or the development of gynecomastia, but also to growth disorders, heart rhythm disorders, stroke, and potency problems, which can lead to infertility.
Consequences of Bigorexia
Individuals afflicted with bigorexia commence to dedicate their lives to the process of building more and more muscle mass, placing exercise as a top priority. Those suffering from bigorexia often limit social contacts, and conversations often revolve solely around body modeling. Body dysmorphia is frequently referred to as reverse anorexia, although it does not pose the same serious health risks. Obsessive thinking about appearance, coupled with continuous societal pressure and lack of self-satisfaction, can lead to the development of depression and anxiety disorders, including paranoia. Individuals with bigorexia often display emotional instability, transitioning easily from excessive euphoria to deep sadness, which can result in suicide attempts. Furthermore, intense workouts and a restrictive diet can lead to gradual, albeit over time observable (but not to the affected individuals) exhaustion of the body. Nutritional deficiencies leading to avitaminosis, insufficient amounts of macronutrients and micronutrients can not only result in a reduction of muscle mass but also in the development of many metabolic disorders.
How to tackle bigorexia?
Overcoming bigorexia primarily involves undergoing intensive behaviour therapy and pharmacotherapy when indications of depressive disorders arise. Furthermore, it is also necessary to examine the condition of internal organs to prevent damage resulting from the use of a malnourishing diet or pharmaceuticals. In the event of damage, suitable actions are required to restore the balance of the organism.
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