Orthorexia

Orthorexia is a term derived from the Greek words ortho, meaning correct or right, and orexis, meaning appetite. Coined by Dr. Steven Bratman in 1997, orthorexia refers to an obsessive focus on eating foods that one considers healthy, pure, or "correct". Unlike other eating disorders that focus on the quantity of food consumed, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, orthorexia is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with the quality of food. Although not officially recognized as a distinct eating disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the term is increasingly used in medical and health contexts to describe a pattern of disordered eating.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The primary symptom of orthorexia is an obsession with healthy eating that interferes with daily life. Individuals with orthorexia may spend excessive amounts of time planning, researching, and preparing meals that meet their strict dietary standards. This obsession can lead to nutritional deficiencies, social isolation, and emotional distress. Unlike individuals with anorexia or bulimia, people with orthorexia are less focused on losing weight and more concerned with the perceived purity and health benefits of their food.

Diagnosis of orthorexia is challenging, as there is no official diagnostic criteria. However, health professionals may use tools such as the ORTO-15 questionnaire to identify behaviors and attitudes associated with orthorexia. Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) aimed at addressing the obsessive thoughts and behaviors related to food, as well as nutritional counseling to ensure a balanced diet.

Causes

The exact causes of orthorexia are unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of psychological, social, and cultural factors. Personality traits such as perfectionism and a need for control may predispose individuals to develop orthorexia. Social and cultural influences, including societal pressures to eat a certain way and the proliferation of information about diet and health, also play a significant role.

Impact

Orthorexia can have significant physical and psychological impacts. Physically, the restrictive nature of the diet can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and other health problems. Psychologically, the obsession with healthy eating can lead to anxiety, depression, and a diminished quality of life. Additionally, orthorexia can strain relationships and lead to social isolation, as individuals may avoid social gatherings that involve food or may become judgmental of others' eating habits.

Treatment

Treatment for orthorexia typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including psychological therapy and nutritional counseling. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals identify and challenge the distorted beliefs about food and health that contribute to their disorder. Nutritional counseling can help individuals develop a more balanced approach to eating and address any nutritional deficiencies.

Prevention

Preventing orthorexia involves promoting a balanced view of nutrition and health, one that recognizes the importance of dietary flexibility and the enjoyment of food. Education about the risks of extreme dietary restrictions and the value of a varied diet can help reduce the prevalence of orthorexia. Encouraging a healthy relationship with food, free from guilt and anxiety, is also crucial.

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