Orthorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that centers around an obsessive focus on eating healthy foods. While it might seem like prioritizing a nutritious diet is a positive thing, for individuals with orthorexia, this obsession becomes unhealthy and all-consuming. The desire to eat only "pure" or "clean" foods can quickly lead to restrictions that interfere with normal, balanced eating and impact both physical and mental well-being.

Adolescents with orthorexia might avoid entire food groups, obsess over ingredients, or spend excessive time planning meals and checking labels. Over time, this rigid approach to food can create feelings of guilt or anxiety if they deviate from their self-imposed dietary rules.

Unlike other eating disorders that are focused on body image, orthorexia revolves more around the idea of maintaining purity in food choices. But, just like other eating disorders, it can become a way to cope with emotions, stress, or feelings of control.

The Medical Implications of Untreated Orthorexia

If left unaddressed, orthorexia can have serious physical and mental health consequences, including:

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Restricting certain foods or food groups can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which can affect overall health. For example, eliminating carbs or fats may lead to energy imbalance, and avoiding dairy or other sources of calcium could affect bone health.

• Weakened Immune System: The body needs a wide variety of nutrients to function optimally. A limited diet may lead to a weakened immune system, making the individual more susceptible to illness and infections.

• Digestive Issues: A restricted diet can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to bloating, constipation, or other digestive problems.

• Mental Health Struggles: Just like other eating disorders, orthorexia can be linked to anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. The constant fear of eating "imperfect" food can create an overwhelming sense of anxiety.

• Social Isolation: As food becomes more of an obsession, social situations involving meals can be increasingly stressful, leading to avoidance of social gatherings, school events, or family meals.

• Physical Consequences: In extreme cases, the body may begin to break down muscle tissue for energy, leading to weight loss, fatigue, and decreased overall strength.

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

If you're concerned that your adolescent might be struggling with orthorexia, here are some signs to look out for:

• Obsession with “Pure” Foods: Your child might start avoiding entire categories of food (e.g., sugar, gluten, or dairy) or go to extreme lengths to ensure that every meal is "perfect" or aligned with their dietary rules.

• Excessive Focus on Nutrition: They might spend hours researching food or meal planning, obsessing over every ingredient and ensuring their food choices fit a strict set of guidelines.

• Guilt or Anxiety Around Eating: If they deviate from their self-imposed food rules, they may experience intense guilt or anxiety. Eating something "imperfect" can feel like a major failure.

• Food Rituals: They may develop rigid food rituals, like only eating at certain times of day, preparing food in a very specific way, or only eating food that they prepare themselves.

• Social Withdrawal: As meals become more about adhering to strict rules, your child may begin avoiding social events that involve food, like family dinners, parties, or outings with friends.

• Weight Loss or Health Concerns: You might notice significant weight loss or physical symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or digestive problems due to limited food intake.

• Unrealistic Beliefs About Food: They may begin to view food as either “good” or “bad,” with little room for flexibility. This black-and-white thinking can impact their relationship with food and nutrition.

If you recognize these signs in your adolescent, reach out to schedule an appointment with the team.

How We Make the Hard of Eating Disorder Recovery Easier

If you’re navigating the challenges of supporting an adolescent with an eating disorder, we’re here to help. At rethink., we provide compassionate, evidence-based care designed to meet your young person’s unique needs and guide them toward lasting recovery.