Mental Health Friday 2023-12-15
On Mental Health Friday, we post, in alphabetical order, one per week, information on mental health disorders. Mental Health Friday is for informational purposes only, and is in no way meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Please do not self diagnose and seek professional help for what ails you.
Link: FindTreatment.gov is an online source of information for persons seeking substance use and/or mental health treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories.
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Orthorexia Nervosa
Editorial Team
Orthorexia Nervosa is a relatively recent term in the realm of eating disorders, characterized by an obsessive and unhealthy fixation on eating “pure” and “clean” foods. Unlike other eating disorders primarily focused on quantity, orthorexia centers around the perceived quality and healthiness of food choices. This comprehensive exploration will delve into the various aspects of Orthorexia Nervosa, covering its definition, symptoms, potential causes, diagnostic criteria, and treatment approaches.
- Definition and Origin:
- Orthorexia Nervosa, coined by Dr. Steven Bratman in 1997, is derived from the Greek words “ortho,” meaning right, and “orexis,” meaning appetite. It translates to an obsession with righteous eating.
- Unlike anorexia or bulimia, which are primarily concerned with weight and body image, orthorexia is driven by an extreme preoccupation with the healthiness and purity of food.
- Symptoms and Behaviors:
- Individuals with orthorexia exhibit rigid dietary rules, often eliminating entire food groups deemed impure or unhealthy.
- Preoccupation with food quality can lead to social isolation, as individuals may avoid events or gatherings where they cannot control the food options.
- Anxiety or distress when facing situations that involve deviating from their strict dietary guidelines.
- Diagnostic Criteria:
- Orthorexia Nervosa is not officially recognized as a distinct disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, it shares similarities with other eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
- Diagnosis is often based on observed behaviors, cognitive patterns, and the impact of these behaviors on the individual’s daily life and well-being.
- Overlap with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):
- Orthorexia exhibits overlaps with OCD, as both involve obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. In this case, the obsession revolves around food quality and health.
- Ritualistic behaviors, such as intense meal planning, food preparation rituals, and excessive time spent researching and acquiring “pure” foods, may be present.
- Causes and Risk Factors:
- The exact causes of orthorexia are not well-established, but a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors likely contributes.
- Perfectionism, a history of dieting, societal pressure to eat a certain way, and exposure to health and wellness trends on social media are potential risk factors.
- Impact on Physical and Mental Health:
- Orthorexia can lead to nutritional deficiencies due to the elimination of essential food groups.
- Social isolation and strained relationships may result from the rigid dietary restrictions.
- Anxiety and guilt related to food choices can contribute to overall psychological distress.
- Treatment Approaches:
- Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is often employed to address the obsessive thought patterns and behaviors associated with orthorexia.
- Nutritional counseling may be essential to reintroduce a balanced and varied diet.
Conclusion: Orthorexia Nervosa represents a unique and complex relationship with food, characterized by an intense focus on the perceived healthiness of dietary choices. While not officially recognized as a distinct disorder, its impact on both physical and mental health emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding. As the intersection of diet culture, social media influence, and individual vulnerabilities continues to evolve, a holistic approach to treatment and support is crucial for individuals struggling with orthorexia.