Overview

• In a GALA interview republished by dpa and other outlets, van Almsick said stressful moments continue to trigger her to eat less or fixate on food.
• She now views those impulses as warning signals that prompt her to pause competitive commitments and focus on her mental health.
• The disorder first emerged during her elite swimming career after she felt she had lost control as a teenage Olympic medalist.
• Van Almsick retired at 26 with ten Olympic medals, including a silver at age 14, and today lives in Heidelberg with her partner and two sons.
• In a Bild am Sonntag interview she suggested eating disorders may be increasing among young people under today’s societal and digital pressures.