Orthorexia is an emerging eating disorder characterized by an obsessive focus on “healthy” eating. While not officially recognized in the DSM-5, many experts consider it a serious condition that can lead to significant physical and psychological distress. What often begins as a well-intentioned effort to improve one’s diet can spiral into an unhealthy fixation. Individuals with orthorexia may:

• Eliminate entire food groups
• Obsess over food quality and preparation methods
• Spend excessive time planning meals
• Experience anxiety about eating “impure” foods

As the disorder progresses, it can severely disrupt normal functioning. Those affected may:

• Isolate themselves socially to avoid “unhealthy” foods
• Experience malnutrition due to restrictive eating
• Develop intense guilt after consuming “forbidden” foods

While prevalence data is limited, experts believe orthorexia is becoming increasingly common in our health-conscious society. At Resilience DBT and Eating Recovery, our specialized therapists work with clients to identify and address the underlying causes of orthorexia using evidence-based therapies.

Recognizing the Warning Signs of Orthorexia

If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, it may be indicative of orthorexia

Obsessive Focus on Food Quality

Individuals with orthorexia exhibit an extreme preoccupation with the purity and healthiness of their food. They often limit their diet to organic, whole, or raw foods, placing more emphasis on quality than quantity. This rigid adherence to self-imposed dietary rules can lead to severe anxiety or guilt when deviating from their strict eating patterns.

Extreme Dietary Restrictions

People struggling with orthorexia may cut out entire food groups, deeming them “unhealthy” or “impure.” Their inflexibility can be so severe that they would choose to go hungry rather than consume unacceptable foods. This rigidity extends beyond diet to exercise regimens, with any deviation causing significant distress.

At Resilience DBT and Eating Recovery, we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-Enhanced (CBT-E) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients regain flexibility in their eating habits while reducing anxiety and guilt associated with food.

Physical and Emotional Consequences

The obsessive pursuit of “clean eating” can result in various physical, mental, and emotional effects. Orthorexia sufferers may experience malnutrition, social isolation, and intense feelings of shame or depression when unable to maintain their strict dietary standards.

Elimination and Avoidance Behaviors

Individuals with orthorexia often eliminate entire food groups, such as processed foods, sugar, meat, dairy, carbs, or gluten. They may view these as “bad” or even “poisonous,” believing consumption will lead to illness. This rigid categorization of foods can result in extreme avoidance behaviors. You might notice someone leaving a room if a forbidden food is present or skipping social events to avoid “fear foods.”

At Resilience DBT and Eating Recovery, our therapists provide structured meal support and behavioral interventions that encourage a balanced approach to eating.

Isolation and Mental Health Impacts

Unfortunately, this isolation can lead to depression and intensified thought disturbances. While similar restriction patterns may be seen in anorexia, orthorexia isn’t necessarily rooted in appearance or weight loss goals. Instead, the focus is on the perceived purity and health of foods. This obsession with “clean eating” can significantly impact one’s quality of life and relationships.

The Paradox of Health Obsession

Orthorexia is deeply rooted in an intense fixation on “healthy” eating. While weight loss isn’t always a clinical indicator, it can be a byproduct of this obsession. The paradox lies in the fact that what begins as a quest for health often leads to an unbalanced diet and malnutrition.

Unintended Consequences

You might find yourself eliminating entire food groups in pursuit of “purity,” unknowingly depriving your body of essential nutrients. This restrictive behavior can result in:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Weakened immune system
• Decreased energy levels

Beyond Physical Health

The impact of orthorexia extends beyond your plate. Your social life may suffer as you struggle to eat in restaurants or at social gatherings. Anxiety and guilt surrounding food choices can dominate your thoughts, affecting your mental well-being and overall quality of life.

At Resilience DBT and Eating Recovery, we believe in a holistic treatment approach that includes psychological therapy, nutritional counseling, and family involvement to support long-term recovery.

Seeking Help for Orthorexia

Orthorexia is a complex issue that can have serious physical and mental health consequences if left unchecked. By being aware of the warning signs in yourself or your loved ones, you can take proactive steps to address problematic eating behaviors before they become severe. If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you care about, it’s important to seek professional help. An eating disorder therapist can provide guidance and support in developing a healthier relationship with food and body image.

At Resilience DBT and Eating Recovery, we understand that the line between health-conscious eating and disordered eating can be thin. Our team is dedicated to helping individuals recognize when healthy habits have turned into harmful restrictions. With specialized treatment plans, we provide clients with the tools to rebuild a balanced and sustainable relationship with food. Our mission is to ensure that those struggling with orthorexia can regain their physical and mental well-being in a compassionate and supportive environment.

References:

1. Dunn, T. M., & Bratman, S. (2016). On orthorexia nervosa: A review of the literature and proposed diagnostic criteria. Eating Behaviors, 21, 11-17.
2. Cena, H., Barthels, F., Cuzzolaro, M., Bratman, S., Young, S., Brytek-Matera, A., & Varga, M. (2019). Definition and diagnostic criteria for orthorexia nervosa: A narrative review of the literature. Eating and Weight Disorders, 24(2), 209-246.
3. Koven, N. S., & Abry, A. W. (2015). The clinical basis of orthorexia nervosa: Emerging perspectives. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 11, 385-394.

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