FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — It’s National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, and while many people are familiar with conditions like bulimia and anorexia, experts say another disordered eating pattern is becoming more common: orthorexia.
Orthorexia is an obsession with eating “clean” or healthy foods -- a focus that can shift from wellness to something harmful.
Dr. Kasey Goodpaster, a psychologist with the Cleveland Clinic, said orthorexia isn’t officially recognized as a distinct eating disorder, but it is a disordered eating pattern that clinicians are seeing more often.
“We can’t say that social media causes orthorexia, but it absolutely can add fuel to the flame,” she said.
As people scroll through their phones, they’re often exposed to fear-based nutrition advice and ideas about what foods are “good” or “bad.” For people who already struggle with anxiety or perfectionism, that can increase risk.
“People who have anxiety or perfectionistic tendencies, that can really put them at risk for developing a full-blown eating disorder,” Goodpaster said.
She said orthorexia may begin with a simple goal: to be healthier. Over time, though, food rules can become increasingly strict.
Warning signs include eliminating entire food groups, feeling guilt or anxiety after eating something deemed “off the plan,” avoiding social situations that involve food, and spending excessive amounts of time researching or preparing meals.
The physical consequences can be serious. Goodpaster said overly restrictive eating can lead to nutrient deficiencies, hormonal changes, fatigue, bone loss and other medical complications. It can also lead to isolation.
“When food rules start to dominate people’s lives, relationships and other meaningful experiences can begin to take a backseat,” she said.
If you’re concerned a loved one may have an unhealthy relationship with food, Goodpaster recommends starting with a compassionate conversation and encouraging them to seek professional help.
“Healthy nutrition should support your life,” she said. “It shouldn’t make you feel anxious, isolated or pressured to eat perfectly.”
She also encourages people to check in with themselves. If eating habits are becoming a source of stress or fear, she suggests limiting social media use and unfollowing accounts that promote extreme approaches to food.
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