What is a primary feature of Anorexia Athletica?

Anorexia Athletica is characterized primarily by an obsession with exercise combined with insufficient food intake. This condition manifests through individuals who engage in excessive amounts of physical activity, often in an attempt to achieve a certain body image or weight, while simultaneously not consuming enough calories to support their energy needs. The focus on maintaining a specific level of fitness or controlling body weight leads to an unhealthy relationship with both food and exercise.

While self-induced vomiting can occur in other eating disorders, it is not a distinguishing feature of Anorexia Athletica. Instead, the key characteristic is the compulsive nature of exercise paired with inadequate nutrition. The other options, such as excessive calorie intake or avoidance of physical activity, do not align with the foundations of Anorexia Athletica, since the condition specifically involves a combination of excessive exercise and restrictive eating habits. This understanding highlights the unique aspects of Anorexia Athletica and its implications for athletes and individuals involved in fitness.