Orthorexia is an eating disorder characterized by an excessive obsession with consuming healthy foods. Unlike anorexia or bulimia, where the focus is on the amount of food or body weight, in orthorexia the concern focuses on the quality of food and maintaining a diet considered "pure" or " "clean".
Origin and definition of orthorexia
The term "orthorexia" was coined by doctor Steven Bratman in 1997, who defined it as a pathological obsession with healthy food. Although it was not initially recognized as an eating disorder, in recent years it has been gaining relevance in the field of mental health and nutrition.
Characteristics of orthorexia
People with Orthorexia often show an exaggerated concern about where food comes from, the way it is grown, processed and cooked, as well as food combinations. For them, eating becomes a kind of ritual in which they try to control every detail to ensure that they are only eating products considered healthy. This behavior can lead to extreme dietary restrictions and avoidance of social situations that involve eating out.
Risk factors
Orthorexia can be influenced by various factors, such as the social pressure to follow fad diets or achieve unrealistic beauty standards. It may also be related to anxiety, perfectionism or control disorders. People who have had a history of eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, may also be at greater risk of developing orthorexia.
Consequences of orthorexia
Although initially the Orthorexia may seem like a healthy habit, in the long term it can have negative consequences for physical and mental health. Excessive restriction in food choices can lead to deficiencies of certain essential nutrients, such as fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals. In addition, the obsession with healthy food can generate anxiety, stress and difficulties in social relationships.
Impact on mental health
People with orthorexia may experience feelings of guilt, nervousness or discomfort with breaking your self-imposed dietary rules, which can affect your quality of life and emotional well-being. The constant worry about what they eat and maintaining strict control over their diet can become a source of anguish and obsession.
Impact on physical health
From a point of view Physically, orthorexia can cause problems such as unintentional weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, hormonal imbalances and alterations in the immune system. Overly restrictive diets can also increase the risk of developing more serious eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.
Diagnosis and treatment of orthorexia
The diagnosis of orthorexia can be complicated, since the obsession with healthy food is socially valued as something positive and healthy. However, if preoccupation with eating negatively affects the person's daily life, it is important to seek professional help.
Psychological therapy
Treatment of orthorexia usually requires the intervention of a multidisciplinary team, which may include psychologists, nutritionists and doctors specialized in eating disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective in restructuring thoughts and behaviors related to eating, as well as working on body acceptance and stress management.
Nutritional reeducation
In addition to psychological therapy, it is essential to work on the nutritional re-education of the person affected by orthorexia. This involves learning to have a more flexible and balanced relationship with food, without labeling foods as "good" or "bad" and without falling into the rigidity of dietary rules.
Prevention and tips to maintain a healthy diet
To prevent orthorexia and promote a balanced diet, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
Seek professional advice
If you have doubts about your relationship with food or if you notice that your diet is affecting your emotional and physical well-being, do not hesitate to seek help from a psychologist, a nutritionist or a doctor specialized in eating disorders.
Cultivate A positive attitude toward food
Instead of obsessing about counting calories or classifying foods as good or bad, try adopting a more flexible and compassionate attitude toward food. Enjoy your meals without feeling guilty and allow yourself to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Encourage self-care and self-compassion
Remember that food is part of a healthy lifestyle that does not must become a source of stress or anxiety. Prioritize self-care, practicing moderate physical activity and adequate rest to maintain a balance between body and mind.
In summary, orthorexia is an eating disorder that is characterized by an excessive obsession with consuming healthy foods. . Although at first it may seem like a positive habit, in the long term it can have negative consequences for physical and mental health. It is important to seek professional help if you notice that your relationship with food is affecting your quality of life and well-being. Remember that a balanced diet is based on variety, moderation and enjoyment of food in a context of self-care and self-compassion.