Understanding Orthorexia: When Healthy Eating Becomes Harmful

Understanding Orthorexia: When Healthy Eating Becomes Harmful

Orthorexia is a term used to describe an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating. While it is important to eat nutritious foods and take care of our bodies, orthorexia takes this to an extreme where the individual becomes fixated on the quality and purity of their food choices.

People with orthorexia might spend excessive amounts of time researching, planning, and preparing their meals. They often have strict rules about what they can and cannot eat, leading to feelings of guilt or anxiety if they stray from their self-imposed dietary guidelines. This can cause social isolation, as they may avoid social gatherings where they cannot control the food options.

It's important to note that orthorexia is not officially recognized as a clinical diagnosis in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), but it is still a real and potentially harmful condition. Orthorexic behavior can lead to malnutrition, physical health issues, and mental health struggles such as anxiety and depression.

If you or someone you know shows signs of orthorexia, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional. A balanced approach to nutrition and a healthy relationship with food is key to overall well-being.

Remember, it's important to enjoy food and nourish your body without becoming consumed by strict rules or obsessive thoughts about healthy eating.