Orthorexia nervosa is an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating, which leads people to rigidly adhere to restrictive diets.
Orthorexia occurs when the healthy desire to eat well turns into an unhealthy obsession with perfect nutrition.
Orthorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an unhealthy fixation on consuming only foods perceived as “pure” or “healthy.” People with orthorexia often become obsessed with the quality and cleanliness of their food, impose strict dietary restrictions, and experience distress if they deviate from self-imposed rules.
“Some people have a balanced approach to eating, but after a certain point, it becomes an obsession and they only eat organic, non-GMO, unprocessed foods. From meticulously planning your meals to spending hours researching nutritional labels and avoiding social gatherings where there is no control over the menu. If they accidentally eat something unhealthy, they begin to feel overwhelming guilt and anxiety. This obsession with healthy eating starts affecting social life, causing tension in relationships and negatively affecting mental well-being,” says Dr Shyam Sundar CM, Consultant Endocrinology and Diabetology, SPARSH Hospital.
The management of orthorexia involves a multifaceted approach that addresses the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. “This means talking to a therapist who can help with thoughts and feelings and also seeing a hormone doctor (endocrinologist) who might suggest certain medications. By working together with these experts we can get out of a difficult situation like this,” adds Dr. Sundar.
Orthorexia nervosa is an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating, which leads people to rigidly adhere to restrictive diets. While intentions may focus on health, they can lead to malnutrition, social isolation, and anxiety. “Nutrient deficiencies, organ damage, and disruption of hormonal balance are common physical consequences. Psychological impacts include depression and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Seeking support from healthcare professionals is crucial to managing orthorexia and restoring a balanced approach to nutrition,” says Edwina Raj, Head of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Services, Aster CMI Hospital.
Orthorexia nervosa can negatively affect the body through malnutrition, causing deficiencies of essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. This can lead to weakened immune function, loss of bone density, hormonal imbalances, and heart complications. “Organ damage can occur due to extreme dietary restrictions. Additionally, orthorexia can exacerbate psychological distress and contribute to conditions such as anxiety and depression. Immediate intervention is essential to address the physical and psychological ramifications of this disordered eating pattern,” adds Raj.
Orthorexia occurs when the healthy desire to eat well turns into an unhealthy obsession with perfect nutrition. It leads to extreme food anxiety and strict rules about what to eat. This can damage both physical and mental health, as well as relationships and overall quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to detect it early and raise awareness through timely intervention. By preventing it through education, we hope to create a society where people are healthy and happy.
