Orthorexia Nervosa

Definition:

Orthorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an unhealthy obsession with eating only “pure” and “clean” foods. Individuals with orthorexia often develop strict dietary rules and restrictions, avoiding foods that they perceive as unhealthy, impure, or containing artificial ingredients.

Subtypes of Orthorexia:

Orthorexia can be further categorized into different subtypes, based on the specific food groups or ingredients that individuals avoid. Some common subtypes include:

Organic-only Orthorexia: A subtype where individuals exclusively consume organic foods and avoid conventionally grown or genetically modified products.
Raw-food Orthorexia: A subtype where individuals only consume raw and uncooked foods, believing that heating or cooking destroys nutrients.
Gluten-free Orthorexia: A subtype where individuals strictly avoid gluten-containing foods, even if they do not have gluten-related disorders such as celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Paleo Orthorexia: A subtype where individuals adhere to a paleolithic-inspired diet, avoiding processed foods, grains, legumes, and dairy products.

Signs and Symptoms:

Orthorexia Nervosa may exhibit the following signs and symptoms:

Obsessive and compulsive behavior related to food choices
Extreme preoccupation with food quality, purity, and cleanliness
Severe anxiety or guilt when deviating from strict dietary rules
Distorted body image and fear of weight gain or becoming “impure”
Malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies due to limited food choices
Social isolation and difficulty eating outside of controlled environments
Depression or mood disorders related to food and eating

Treatment:

Successful treatment of Orthorexia Nervosa requires a multidisciplinary approach. It commonly involves psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and sometimes medication. The treatment focuses on identifying and addressing underlying psychological factors, promoting a balanced relationship with food, and rebuilding a healthy body image.