3 Warning Signs of Orthorexia

 The focus on “clean” food has increased over the last few years. Take a look at the wellness industry—its worth is in the BILLIONS.  Our society is enamored with all things health and wellness, and we  (as a collective society) glorify certain practices, diets, and exercises while we villainize others. Over the past few months, as policies are being implemented regarding processed foods and other food regulations, “clean” eating in the name of health has gotten more media coverage.  So how do we know when focus on food quality becomes problematic?

Orthorexia is a condition in which an individual’s focus centers around food quality to the extent at which it greatly interferes with life. While it is not officially recognized as a disorder in the DSM5 and therefore does not follow a specific set of criteria, it can be difficult to define. However, clinicians agree that orthorexia can greatly impact one’s physical, mental, and social wellbeing.

Here are three warning signs to consider if you think you might have orthorexia:

1.     Social withdrawal: You notice that you are declining invitations or avoiding social gatherings out of concern that there won’t be “safe” or “clean” foods available.

2.     Rigidity: Your eating routine starts to feel inflexible. There may be beliefs about eating just the right types of foods and doing just the right types of exercises. You may tell yourself you are doing this for your health, but there is no wiggle room.

3.     Anxiety: There is increased anxiety or distress if you get out of your food routine or a fear of getting sick if you are not eating foods considered to be “clean.”

Getting support for Orthorexia

            It may be confusing considering how to get help for behaviors that are oftentimes praised and valued by society, highlighting the importance of working with an eating disorder professional. Support for orthorexia means looking into beliefs about your body and food and considering what aligns with your personal values and what does not. Depending on treatment goals, the therapy approach might include cognitive behavioral therapy (challenging thoughts, feelings, behaviors), exposure response prevention (becoming more comfortable in triggering situations), or a more social justice perspective. Whatever approach (or approaches) used, your voice is amplified and your goals matter.

Coping with Constant Information

            While getting support for orthorexia, the barrage of information from the media does not stop. It can be difficult to challenge the rigidity that you face when you continue to be surrounded with food rules, biohacking, and fearmongering. Here are

1.     Turn the screens off. Try to unplug from your phone or tv even for brief periods of time to refocus.

2.     Reconnect with your values. Remember your reasons for challenging your food beliefs and give yourself compassion as you move towards them.

3.     Talk about it. Reach out to a trusted friend or a professional. You don’t have to face it alone.