Eating healthy is essential for living a long, happy, and disease-free life. We all know the benefits of a balanced diet – a healthier heart, stronger bones, and a sharper mind.

However, for some people, eating healthy becomes an obsession that negatively impacts their mental health and relationships.

Orthorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an unhealthy fixation on healthy eating habits. People with orthorexia obsess about the quality of their food, purity, and nutrient content.

They might avoid certain foods, like those with artificial colors or flavors, or particular food groups, such as carbohydrates or fats, due to an irrational fear of becoming unhealthy or obese. Orthorexia should not be confused with healthy eating habits or moderate exercise; it is a disorder that can lead to mental distress and physical ailments if left untreated.

The Orthorexia Test

If you’re someone who’s concerned about healthy eating and wants to know if you’re at risk of developing the disorder, you can take the Orthorexia Test below. Answer each question honestly, and add up your scores at the end.

The higher the score, the higher the chances of having orthorexia nervosa.

Do you avoid certain food groups, such as carbs or fats, because you believe they are unhealthy?
Do you obsess about the quality of your food and search for “pure” or “clean” options?
Do you read food labels extensively to assess their nutrient, calorie, or ingredient content?
Do you avoid social gatherings because you are worried about the food options available?
Do you feel intense guilt or anxiety when you break your self-imposed food rules?
Do you spend excessive amounts of time planning, preparing, and tracking your meals and exercise routines?
Do your eating habits interfere with your daily life, work, or relationships?
Do you continue to eat only “healthy” foods even when you’re ill or hungry?
Do you feel superior to others when it comes to your eating habits?
Do you avoid social media or websites that promote unhealthy food or lifestyles?

To score the test, give yourself one point for each “yes” answer, and add up the total. If your score is five or higher, you might be at risk of developing orthorexia and should consider seeking professional help.

Symptoms of Orthorexia

Orthorexia nervosa shares similarities with other eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa. However, unlike these disorders, orthorexia does not focus on body weight or shape but rather on the perceived health benefits of food.

Here are some common symptoms of orthorexia:.

Obsessing about the quality and nutrient content of food
Avoiding certain foods, food groups, or entire food categories
Experiencing intense guilt or anxiety if unable to maintain the self-imposed dietary restrictions
Feeling superior or judgmental towards others who don’t follow healthy eating habits
Spending excessive amounts of time planning, preparing, or thinking about food
Continuing to eat only “healthy” foods even when feeling ill, hungry, or socially isolated
Developing nutritional deficiencies or health problems due to an imbalanced or restrictive diet
Withdrawing from social situations due to food-related anxieties or fears
Experiencing depression, anxiety, or mood swings related to food and eating

Treatment for Orthorexia

If you suspect that you or a loved one has orthorexia nervosa, seeking professional help is crucial. Orthorexia can lead to severe mental and physical health problems, including malnutrition, social isolation, and anxiety disorders.

Treatment options for orthorexia nervosa include:.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy – This type of therapy focuses on changing harmful thoughts and behaviors related to food and eating habits.
Nutritional counseling – A registered dietician can help evaluate and balance nutritional needs and create a healthy, flexible eating plan.
Group therapy or support groups – Talking to others who have had similar experiences can provide a sense of community and understanding.
Medications – Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may help manage mood-related symptoms of orthorexia.

Recovery from orthorexia nervosa typically involves learning to accept that food is neither “good” nor “bad” but rather a source of nourishment and enjoyment.

It involves developing a healthy relationship with food, exercise, and one’s body, free from harmful dieting or perfectionistic habits.

Tips to Achieve a Balanced Diet

If you’re someone who’s obsessed with healthy eating habits or wants to avoid falling into orthorexia nervosa, there’s no need to give up on a healthy diet entirely.

Here are some tips to achieve balance and moderation with your food choices:.

Eat a variety of foods from all food groups, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Avoid labeling food as “good” or “bad” and instead focus on an overall healthy eating pattern.
Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues and eat when hungry, stopping when full.
Enjoy your food and indulge in moderation, without guilt or restriction.
Practice mindful eating, paying attention to the taste, texture, and enjoyment of your food.
Stay active and engage in physical activities you enjoy, rather than just for weight loss or calorie burn.
Connect with others and enjoy food with family and friends without anxiety or fear of judgment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, eating healthy is essential for a happy, healthy life, but it can also turn into an unhealthy obsession if taken too far.

Orthorexia nervosa is a condition characterized by an unhealthy fixation on healthy eating habits, causing mental and physical distress. If you’re concerned about having the disorder, take the orthorexia test, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Remember to strive for balance and moderation with your food choices and enjoy your meals without guilt or anxiety.