Healthy eating can become an obsession: Recognizing orthorexia

Healthy eating is beneficial, but for some, it can morph into an unhealthy obsession known as orthorexia. This condition, though not officially recognized as a separate diagnosis, involves an excessive focus on consuming only "clean," healthy, and proper foods. Experts warn that this behavior can harm both physical and mental health, significantly limiting daily life.

“

Orthorexia denotes an excessive focus on consuming exclusively food that is considered pure, healthy, and proper.

The term orthorexia was coined in 1996 by American physician Steven Bratman. Individuals with this condition progressively eliminate more foods they deem unhealthy. Over time, they may begin to avoid entire meals not prepared by themselves. Experts see similarities with anorexia and bulimia, as all these conditions link food to a need for control.

Key signs include excessive worry about the origin, composition, and quality of food. A person might spend hours studying labels, researching ingredients, and meticulously planning meals. They often avoid restaurants and food prepared by others, fearing it won't meet their strict rules. Eventually, grains, sugar, gluten, or preservatives might be completely removed from the diet, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies, weight loss, and malnutrition.

“

A person with this problem gradually eliminates more and more foods because they do not consider them healthy enough, and over time may start avoiding entire meals that they have not prepared themselves.

Fear of illness, guilt after deviating from the plan, and excessive criticism of others' eating habits can also emerge. While causes differ, risk factors may include a family history of eating disorders, frequent dieting, or type 1 diabetes. Psychological factors like perfectionism, body dissatisfaction, and anxiety, along with societal pressure and teasing about weight, can also play a significant role.

“

Experts recognize similarities with anorexia and bulimia because in all cases, food is linked to the need for control.

Since orthorexia isn't in official diagnostic manuals, there are no uniform criteria. However, healthcare professionals can assess how strict dietary rules impact health, relationships, work, or school. Malnutrition, significant weight loss, isolation, and self-worth tied to dietary adherence are particularly concerning signs. Treatment begins with acknowledging that the pursuit of healthy eating is causing harm. It may involve gradual exposure to feared foods, behavioral changes, and challenging rigid beliefs, supported by relaxation techniques, mindful eating, meditation, yoga, and tai chi. Healthy eating should not induce constant fear, guilt, or social isolation.

“

Healthy eating should not cause constant fear, guilt, or alienation from other people.