What is Orthorexia
Understanding Orthorexia. Signs and Patterns
Orthorexia nervosa is a disordered eating pattern characterized by an obsession with eating “pure,” “clean,” or “healthy” foods to the point that it disrupts daily life and leads to physical or emotional harm. Unlike other eating disorders that may focus on quantity of food, orthorexia is defined by an intense fixation on the quality of food and rigid dietary rules. While not officially recognized as a distinct diagnosis in the DSM-5, orthorexia is increasingly understood by mental health professionals as a serious and growing condition that requires attention.
Orthorexia can stem from a mix of psychological, social, and cultural influences. The condition is often driven by perfectionism, anxiety, or a desire for control, and it is frequently reinforced by societal messages glorifying clean eating, wellness trends, or influencer culture.
At InnerLife Recovery, we recognize that the line between healthy eating and harmful obsession can be thin and confusing. Our international team offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment to help individuals regain a balanced relationship with food and their bodies.
Causes and Risk Factors
- People with perfectionistic or obsessive-compulsive tendencies
- Those in nutrition, fitness, or health-related fields
- Individuals with a history of eating disorders or anxiety
- Adolescents and young adults exposed to diet culture and social media
- People who have experienced trauma or seek control during uncertain times
Online Self-Test
Understanding the signs of orthorexia is the first step toward reclaiming control of your life. To support you on this journey, we’ve developed a free and confidential online self-assessment. This quick test can help you evaluate your eating habits and determine whether you may be facing a problem.
Signs and Symptoms of Orthorexia
Physical and Social Effects:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Weight loss or malnutrition
- Fatigue, weakness, or digestive issues
- Social isolation due to rigid food beliefs
- Increased anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Behavioral and Emotional Signs:
- Obsessive focus on food ingredients, sourcing, or preparation methods
- Cutting out entire food groups (e.g., sugar, carbs, dairy, meat) without medical cause
- Feeling guilt, shame, or anxiety when deviating from “clean” eating rules
- Spending excessive time planning meals or researching food
- Avoiding social situations that involve food (restaurants, family dinners, holidays)
- Believing that food choices define moral or personal worth
- Becoming increasingly restrictive over time
Health Risks and Long-Term Consequences
- Malnutrition or severe dietary imbalances
- Disordered thinking patterns and obsessive behaviors
- Decline in quality of life due to social withdrawal or emotional distress
- Body image disturbances and identity fixation on dietary discipline
- Co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression
Treatment for Orthorexia
Orthorexia affects people of all backgrounds but is particularly common among young adults, perfectionists, and those immersed in health-conscious or fitness-focused environments. Social media, wellness culture, and food trends can reinforce rigid thinking and make recovery more difficult without professional help.
It’s important to know that orthorexia is treatable, and with the right support, recovery is possible. Our approach focuses not only on stopping the eating behaviors, but also on healing the emotional and psychological roots of the disorder.
Choose InnerLife Recovery Today
When you choose InnerLife Recovery, you’re choosing a team of professionals that’s fully invested in your long term recovery. We want what’s best for you and provide all the tools you need to beat your struggles by providing the best treatment for eating disorders.
In addition, our team possesses over 100 years of combined experience in addiction, mental health and eating disorders. Each individual works towards a common goal: your recovery. From licensed clinical psychologists, doctors and psychiatrists to therapists, yoga teachers, personal trainer and an excellent chef. Every member of our team will provide key skills and techniques that directly impact your recovery and improve your chances of long term success, both during your stay with us and beyond.
If you or a loved one are struggling with orthorexia, you are not alone. Contact us today, we are here to support you.
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