Orthorexia is an eating disorder that was first coined by Dr. Steven Bratman in 1997.

The term “Orthorexia” comes from the Greek word “Ortho,” which means “correct” or “right,” and “Orexia,” which means “appetite.” Essentially, Orthorexia is an obsession with eating foods that are considered “pure,” “clean,” or “healthy.”.

What is Orthorexia?

Orthorexia involves a fixation on the quality and purity of food rather than quantity.

People with this disorder obsess over the type of food they eat and strive to eat only those foods that are considered “healthy” or “pure.” They may eliminate whole food groups, like dairy or carbohydrates, and refuse to eat any foods that are not part of their “clean” or “pure” diet.

Unlike other eating disorders, Orthorexia does not focus on weight loss. Instead, it’s a preoccupation with the purity and quality of food.

People with this disorder may become so consumed by what they’re eating that it starts to impact their daily lives and relationships.

What Causes Orthorexia?

The causes of Orthorexia are not entirely clear. However, some of the factors that may contribute to the development of this eating disorder include:.

Perfectionist tendencies
A need to feel in control
Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-compulsive personality traits
A desire to be healthy
A history of weight issues

Symptoms of Orthorexia

The symptoms of Orthorexia can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:.

Obsessing over the nutritional content of food
Eliminating entire food groups from their diet
Continuing to eliminate more foods over time
Preoccupation with food and planning meals in advance
Excessive exercise
Anxiety or distress when “pure” foods are not available
Avoiding social situations that involve food
Fear or guilt surrounding food

If you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms, it’s essential to seek help from a medical professional.

The Dangers of Orthorexia

While Orthorexia may not seem like a severe eating disorder, it can have significant consequences for the individual’s physical and mental health. Some of the potential risks of Orthorexia include:.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Eliminating entire food groups from your diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can cause long-term health issues.
Social Isolation: Avoiding social situations that involve food can lead to social isolation and may impact relationships.
Anxiety and Depression: Obsessing over the purity of food can lead to increased anxiety and depression.
Eating Disorders: Orthorexia can lead to other eating disorders, like anorexia or bulimia.

If left untreated, Orthorexia can lead to severe mental and physical health problems. Therefore, it’s essential to seek help as soon as possible if you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of Orthorexia.

Treatment for Orthorexia

Treatment for Orthorexia typically involves a combination of therapy and medical intervention.

The primary goal of treatment is to address the underlying causes of the disorder, including anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive personality traits.

Therapy can help individuals learn how to develop a healthier relationship with food, eliminate irrational fears around food, and develop a more balanced approach to eating.

Medication may also be prescribed to manage anxiety or other mental health issues.

Conclusion

Orthorexia, while not as well-known as other eating disorders, can have severe consequences for individuals who are struggling with this disorder.

It is essential to seek help from a medical professional if you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of Orthorexia. With the right treatment, individuals can recover from this disorder and develop a healthier relationship with food.