Orthorexia: When Healthy Eating Turns Harmful

 

The term ‘orthorexia’ was coined in 1998 to describe an obsession with proper or ‘healthful’ eating. While being mindful of the nutritional quality of your food isn’t inherently problematic, people with orthorexia become so fixated on “healthy eating” that they actually harm their own mental health, relationships, and physical well-being.

What Is Orthorexia?

Orthorexia involves an obsessive focus on eating “healthy” or “clean” foods, often leading to nutritional deficits and negative impacts on daily life. This fixation can disrupt social functioning, work performance, and emotional balance. Studies have shown that many individuals with orthorexia also experience obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), further complicating their relationship with food.

Warning Signs & Symptoms of Orthorexia

If you suspect you or someone you know may be struggling with orthorexia, here are some common signs to watch for:

  • Compulsive checking of ingredient lists and nutritional labels

  • Increased concern about the health of ingredients

  • Cutting out entire food groups (e.g., all sugar, carbs, dairy, meat, or animal products)

  • Eating only a narrow group of foods deemed ‘healthy’ or ‘pure’

  • Unusual interest in the health of what others are eating

  • Spending hours thinking about food served at upcoming events

  • High levels of distress when ‘safe’ or ‘healthy’ foods aren’t available

  • Obsessively following food and ‘healthy lifestyle’ blogs on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter

  • Body image concerns may or may not be present

These behaviors can create a cycle of anxiety around food choices, leading to isolation and emotional exhaustion.

Health Consequences of Orthorexia

Like anorexia, orthorexia often involves restricting the amount and variety of foods eaten, which can lead to malnutrition. The physical consequences of orthorexia may include:

  • Nutritional deficiencies due to limited food intake

  • Fatigue and weakness from inadequate caloric consumption

  • Digestive issues caused by restrictive eating patterns

  • Impaired immune function due to lack of essential nutrients

The mental toll is equally significant, as orthorexia can contribute to stress, anxiety, and obsessive behaviors that disrupt daily life.

Seeking Help for Orthorexia

If you feel you’re struggling with orthorexia or have recently been diagnosed, seeking professional support is crucial. Working with a dietitian trained in nutrition counseling or a therapist specializing in disordered eating can help you rebuild a healthier relationship with food while addressing underlying emotional concerns like anxiety or OCD.

We’re Here to Support You

Orthorexia doesn’t have to control your life. By addressing its root causes and learning intuitive eating principles, you can improve your physical health, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.

Our offices are located in Murray, Utah, and Tucson, Arizona, where we offer compassionate care tailored to your needs. Schedule a call with one of our dietitians today to start your journey toward healing.e.

 
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