Rise in Orthorexia: The Obsession with ‘Clean’ Eating
In a world that places a premium on healthy living and clean eating, it’s easy to see why many individuals strive to maintain a balanced diet. However, what happens when this pursuit of health becomes an unhealthy obsession? This is the reality for individuals suffering from orthorexia, an eating disorder that is on the rise.
Orthorexia, although not officially recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), is a condition that therapists are increasingly seeing among their patients. It is characterized by an extreme fixation on eating “clean,” as defined by a set of rigid rules that vary depending on the individual and their context. A recent study found that approximately 3 in 10 participants displayed signs of orthorexia, highlighting the prevalence of this disorder.
Jason Wood, director of community engagement at the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), knows firsthand the devastating impact of orthorexia. For him, it was 20 years of an eating disorder culminating in a moment of frustration at a restaurant while on vacation. Wood’s struggle with orthorexia went unnoticed by friends and family, who often praised his dedication to healthy eating. However, behind the facade of clean eating, Wood was withdrawing from social interactions and losing weight to the point where he couldn’t keep himself warm.
One of the challenges in addressing orthorexia is the perception that it is simply a commitment to healthy living. While it may start as a preference, it can quickly spiral into an obsession. Individuals with orthorexia may develop an unhealthy attachment to their food rules, with their body image becoming closely tied to how strictly they adhere to these rules. This fixation can lead to other eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa.
What makes orthorexia particularly insidious is that it often masquerades as health promotion or disease prevention. Society applauds those who adhere to strict food rules, labeling them as health-conscious individuals. However, these behaviors can be a manifestation of “pure, old-fashioned diet culture,” which prioritizes a specific body shape and size. The steps taken to adhere to these rules can be expensive, distracting, and distressing, limiting individuals from pursuing their greater goals and values.
Defining what is considered healthy is another challenge in the context of orthorexia. The concept of healthy eating has evolved over time, with different dietary trends gaining popularity. In the past, low-fat diets were considered healthy, whereas now, high-protein, high-fat, low-carb, and low-sugar foods are often seen as the epitome of health. Others prioritize factors such as organic, non-genetically modified, and locally sourced foods. The problem arises when individuals believe they can only eat a specific type of food, leading to a restrictive and unbalanced diet.
It is crucial to recognize that everyone’s nutritional needs are unique, and the healthiest choice of food varies depending on the individual and their circumstances. Unless there is a medical condition that necessitates a specific diet, the best approach is to listen to one’s body. A healthy life encompasses more than just nutrition; it includes social relationships, pursuing passions, engaging in physical activity, and finding peace of mind. Orthorexia’s rigid food rules can isolate individuals from their peers and limit their ability to live a balanced and connected life.
Fortunately, there is hope for those struggling with orthorexia. Treatment for orthorexia follows a similar path to established plans for other eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia nervosa. Seeking therapy from an eating disorder specialist experienced in treating orthorexia is essential. The recovery process involves unpacking one’s definition of health and reframing ideas around it. It may also require educating friends and family members about the harmful effects of discussing “healthy” or “unhealthy” foods.
Recovery from orthorexia is challenging but rewarding. Jason Wood, who has been in recovery for almost four years, describes it as a chance to start living life again. By redirecting the time and energy once spent on food obsession towards other aspects of life, individuals can regain a sense of balance and fulfillment.
Orthorexia serves as a reminder that while prioritizing health is important, it should not come at the expense of one’s overall well-being. Striving for a balanced approach to nutrition, listening to one’s body, and fostering meaningful connections are key to leading a healthy and fulfilling life. Let us move away from the obsession with “clean” eating and embrace a holistic view of health that encompasses all aspects of our being.
