In a world that’s increasingly obsessed with health and wellness, it can be hard to know where to draw the line. For some people, the desire to eat “clean” or “pure” foods can become so consuming that it starts to take over their lives. This condition is known as orthorexia, and it’s a serious eating disorder that can have devastating consequences. But what is orthorexia, exactly? And how can you recover if you’re struggling with it?
What is Orthorexia? Understanding the Basics
At its core, orthorexia is an obsession with healthy eating that goes far beyond just wanting to be healthy. People with orthorexia become so fixated on the quality and purity of their food, it starts to interfere with their daily lives. They may spend hours researching and planning their meals and obsessing over ingredients and nutrition labels. They may feel intense guilt or anxiety if they eat something they consider “unhealthy.”
Unlike other eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia, orthorexia isn’t necessarily about losing weight or controlling body size. Instead, it’s driven by a desire to be as healthy as possible. This may mean cutting out entire food groups or avoiding social situations where “unclean” foods might be served.
Some common signs of orthorexia include:
- Obsessive thoughts about food and nutrition
- Rigid rules around eating, such as only eating certain “pure” foods or avoiding entire food groups
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety when eating “unhealthy” foods
- Social isolation and avoiding events where food is served
- Neglecting other areas of life, such as work or relationships, in pursuit of the “perfect” diet
- Feeling a sense of superiority over others who don’t eat as “purely”
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Recovery is possible with the right support.
What is Orthorexia? Diving Deeper
One of the tricky things about orthorexia is that it can be hard to spot. After all, in a culture that’s constantly bombarded with messages about the importance of healthy eating, it can be easy to mistake orthorexia for just being “health-conscious.”
But there are some key differences between a healthy interest in nutrition and a full-blown eating disorder. For one thing, people with orthorexia often take their dietary restrictions to extremes, cutting out entire food groups or only eating a narrow range of “safe” foods. They may also become obsessed with the source and preparation of their food. They may refuse to eat anything that doesn’t meet their strict standards.
Another hallmark of orthorexia is the way it impacts a person’s social life and relationships. People with orthorexia may avoid eating out or attending social events where they can’t control the food being served. They may also become judgmental or critical of others who don’t share their eating habits, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Over time, the mental and emotional toll of orthorexia can be significant. Constantly worrying about food and nutrition can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression. It can also cause physical health problems, such as nutrient deficiencies or digestive issues.
Getting Help: The Role of Eating Disorder Therapy
If you’re struggling with orthorexia, it’s important to know that recovery is possible. Eating disorder therapy can be a powerful tool in your journey. A therapist who specializes in treating eating disorders can help you understand the root causes of your orthorexia. Additionally, they can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms, and work towards a more balanced relationship with food and your body.
Some common types of eating disorder therapy include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors related to food and eating.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). DBT teaches skills for managing difficult emotions, tolerating distress, and improving interpersonal relationships.
- Family-based treatment (FBT). For younger patients, FBT involves the whole family in the recovery process, with a focus on restoring healthy eating patterns and weight.
- Nutritional counseling. Working with a registered dietitian can help you develop a balanced, nourishing meal plan and overcome fears or anxieties around certain foods. Learn more about our licensed dietician here.
In addition to therapy, other tools for recovery may include support groups, self-help books, and mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga. At Therapy for Women Center, we are proud to offer all the above types of therapy necessary for healing orthorexia.
Moving Forward: Life After Orthorexia
Recovering from orthorexia is a journey, and it’s not always a straight path. There may be setbacks and challenges along the way, but with the right support and tools, it is possible to find freedom from obsessive thoughts and behaviors around food.
As you work towards recovery, it’s important to be patient and compassionate with yourself. Remember, your worth is not defined by what you eat or how closely you adhere to a particular diet. You are so much more than your eating habits, and you deserve to live a life that’s full of joy, connection, and purpose.
If you’re struggling with orthorexia, know that you’re not alone. Help is available. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider.
At Therapy for Women Center, we have a number of eating disorder therapists who specialize in orthorexia. Learn more about our approach here. We would be honored to support you.
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