Definition

 

Orthorexia Nervosa refers to an excessive preoccupation with healthy eating, characterized by the compulsive avoidance of 'unhealthy' foods. In the process, the definition of what is considered 'healthy' becomes increasingly strict, resulting in rigid dietary rules. This behavior often disrupts their concept of time and even their social interactions, as these restrictive eating habits make it difficult to eat meals, let alone in restaurants or with company. Over time, these eating habits lead to isolation and neglect of other important areas in life. Deviating from their diet triggers guilt and anxiety, where adherence to the diet is perceived as having a sense of success or control. Professional support may be necessary depending on the perceived level of suffering and the extent to which it restricts the general quality of life of those affected.

 

Incidence

In a FOPH 2010 survey of the Swiss population, nearly one-third of respondent reported excessive concerns with health-promoting nutrition. Whether orthorexia is a disease in its own right or merely an elaborate lifestyle is currently the subject of controversial debate. 

 

Risk Factors

Orthorexia has been associated with the following risk factors:

• Co-occurrence with other eating disorders:
  • Orthorexia often exists alongside other eating disorders or may develop as a way to manage an existing condition.

Associated Symptoms

Orthorectic eating behavior can promote the development of other eating disorders and lead to deficiency symptoms due to an unbalanced diet.  

 

Diagnostic Criteria 

Although not officially classified as an eating disorder, orthorexia is assessed using criteria proposed in 1997 by american physician Steven Bratman. Bratman posed the following list of questions to check for possible orthorexia:

• Do you think about your diet for more than 3 hours a day?
• Do you plan your meals several days in advance?
• Is the nutritional value of your meal more important to you than its enjoyment?
• Do you feel that the healthier you eat, the worse your quality of life is?
• Have you become stricter with yourself lately?
• Does eating healthy increase your self-esteem?
• Are you giving up foods you used to enjoy in order to eat "real" foods now?
• Do your eating habits cause you to have trouble going out and distance you from friends and family?
• Do you feel guilty when you stray from your diet?
• Do you feel happy and in control when you eat healthy?