'An Increasing Prevalence of 'Orthorexia': Key Insights Explained'

In today's health-obsessed society, it's important to be mindful of the line that healthy eating can sometimes cross. This line, if overstepped, can lead to a condition known as orthorexia, a preoccupation with healthy eating and a fixation on the purity of food that's becoming more common.

Although orthorexia is not yet an official diagnosis in the DSM-5, it is widely recognized in the disordered eating community. Two dietitians, Beth Auguste and Heise, have recently spoken out about the issue in an article by HuffPost. The names of these dietitians, however, are not available.

Orthorexia can manifest in various ways. For instance, someone with orthorexia may spend lots of time analyzing ingredient lists and nutrition labels, or they may create rigid rules regarding their food intake, such as only eating brown rice and never making exceptions for white rice. One sign of orthorexia is extreme food restrictions that aren't related to an allergy or suggestion from a doctor.

If you find yourself feeling anxious or guilty after breaking any of your food rules, it could be a sign that you're thinking about healthy eating too much. Dietitians can help individuals ensure they're on the right track with their eating, whether or not they have specific concerns.

Heise advises focusing on realistic goals in eating, not on food trends or the concept of "clean" food. She emphasizes that eating and healthy eating are lifelong journeys, and one's diet needs may change as they age. Auguste urges letting go of all-or-nothing thinking when it comes to eating, including rules around following one specific diet or a rigid plan to lose weight.

Auguste also recommends finding the middle ground and reminding oneself that they don't have to be perfect in their eating habits. She suggests using language like "usually" instead of "always" when discussing eating habits to avoid feelings of failure and self-judgment.

If thoughts about food are disrupting one's mental health, or if food concerns interfere with one's physical health, it's a red flag. Auguste suggests that in such cases, seeking help from a dietitian or mental health professional is crucial.

It's also worth noting that if your stress about food interferes with your social engagements, it could be a cause for concern. If someone is struggling with an eating disorder, they can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for support.

The protein-ification of nearly everything and new wearable technology that tracks biometrics are part of the health-obsession craze. However, it's essential to remember that a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are about moderation, not perfection.

Both Heise and Auguste expect orthorexia to become an official diagnosis eventually. And Heise states that one can recover from orthorexia with the right support. So, let's continue to foster a healthy and balanced approach to eating and wellness.