Orthorexia is a little-known but increasing eating disorder in today's society. Unlike other diet-related illnesses, such as anorexia or bulimia, orthorexia focuses on the obsession with consuming only foods considered "healthy."
What is orthorexia?
Orthorexia is an eating disorder characterized by the pathological obsession with consuming foods considered healthy. Unlike other food diseases, orthorexia does not seek to lose weight, but the main concern lies in the quality and purity of the food eaten.
People with orthorexia usually spend a large amount Take time to plan your meals, research the nutrients in foods, and strictly avoid foods you don't consider "pure" or "healthy." This obsession can interfere with your social, work and emotional life, causing a deterioration in your quality of life.
Symptoms of orthorexia
Among the most common symptoms of orthorexia are found:
- Excessive concern about the quality of food.
- Avoidance of socializing at events where they cannot control the quality of food.
- Restriction of entire groups of foods considered "unhealthy".
- Emotional discomfort or anxiety when consuming foods that do not meet established purity standards.
- Obtaining a feeling of moral superiority for following a "perfect" diet.
Risk factors
Although orthorexia can affect people of any age, gender or condition Socially, there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing this eating disorder:
- Perfectionism: People with perfectionistic tendencies are often more likely to become obsessed with healthy eating.
- History of other dietary illnesses: those who have suffered from anorexia or bulimia in the past may be at greater risk of developing orthorexia.
- Social pressure: exposure to advertising for "healthy" products and Idealization of certain eating patterns can influence the appearance of orthorexia.
- Self-esteem problems: people with low self-esteem may turn to healthy eating as a way to control aspects of their lives.
Consequences of orthorexia
Orthorexia, like other eating disorders, can have serious consequences for the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it. Some of the most common complications associated with orthorexia include:
- Nutritional deficiencies: By restricting entire food groups, people with orthorexia can suffer from deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients for the body.
- Digestive problems: the obsession with consuming only foods considered pure can lead to digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea or nutrient absorption problems.
- Social isolation: rigidity in the The diet of people with orthorexia can lead to conflicts in their social environment, making social interactions and personal relationships difficult.
- Psychological disorders: the obsession with healthy eating can trigger problems of anxiety, depression and even disorders of self-image and body perception.
Treatment of orthorexia
Treatment of orthorexia usually requires a multidisciplinary approach that covers physical, nutritional and psychological aspects . Some of the most common strategies used in the treatment of orthorexia are:
Psychological therapy
Psychological therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can be of great help in addressing the irrational beliefs and thought patterns associated with orthorexia. Through therapy, people can identify and modify their dysfunctional thoughts around eating and work on developing a healthier relationship with food.
Nutritional counseling
A nutritionist specialized in eating disorders can help people with orthorexia establish a balanced diet appropriate to their nutritional needs. It is important to learn to diversify the diet, progressively reintroducing those foods that had been excluded because they were considered "unhealthy."
Social support
Have the support of family and friends. and self-help groups can be essential in the orthorexia recovery process. Sharing experiences, feeling understood and receiving support from close people can generate an environment of support and motivation to overcome the eating disorder.
Conclusions
In summary, orthorexia is an eating disorder characterized by the obsession with consuming foods considered healthy. Although on the surface it may seem like a positive behavior, orthorexia can have serious consequences for the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of orthorexia and seek professional help if suspected. With adequate treatment and the necessary support, people with orthorexia can begin a path towards recovery and comprehensive well-being.
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