Orthorexia nervosa

In recent years, the concept of healthy eating has become the norm. Eating healthy and maintaining a balanced diet has become the holy grail of good health. However, for a small number of individuals, this obsession with healthy eating has become a serious eating disorder known as Orthorexia Nervosa.

What is Orthorexia Nervosa?

Orthorexia Nervosa is a condition that involves an unhealthy obsession with eating “clean.” Individuals with orthorexia become obsessed with eating only foods that are deemed “pure,” “natural,” or “healthy.” They believe that consuming anything that is not healthy will lead to negative consequences such as weight gain, health problems, etc.

People with Orthorexia Nervosa are not as concerned with the amount of food they consume as much as they are with the source and quality of the food. Orthorexia Nervosa differs from other eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia in that the goal is not necessarily to lose weight, but instead to maintain an obsessive level of pure and healthy eating. The root cause of this disorder is a desire to achieve moral purity through healthy eating.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Orthorexia Nervosa?

The signs and symptoms of Orthorexia Nervosa are not always easy to recognize. At the beginning stages of this disorder, many of the symptoms may appear normal. However, as the obsession with healthy eating deepens, the signs become more evident. Some common signs and symptoms include:

– An unhealthy preoccupation with food quality and purity.
– A rigid diet that forbids any “unhealthy” foods, including sugar, fat, and preservatives.
– A high level of anxiety about food.
– A feeling of moral superiority associated with healthy eating.
– A decrease in social interaction due to dietary restrictions.
– An increase in anxiety and mood swings if dietary restrictions are violated.

How is Orthorexia Nervosa Treated?

The treatment of Orthorexia Nervosa involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. A therapist can help identify and address the root causes of the disorder, which may include anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression.

Medication may be prescribed to help regulate mood and reduce anxiety or depression symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and participating in social activities can also help manage the disorder.

Conclusion

Orthorexia Nervosa may not be a well-known eating disorder, but it is a serious condition that can cause severe health problems. It is essential to remember that eating a balanced diet is key to maintaining good health. Eating “clean” and “healthy” is important, but not at the cost of our mental health. Let us aim to achieve balance in every aspect of our lives, including our eating habits.

If you suspect that you or someone you know may have Orthorexia Nervosa or any other eating disorder, it is essential to speak with a medical professional. Timely identification and intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of the disorder.