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.