Orthorexia refers to an unhealthy obsession with eating “pure” food. What is considered “pure” or “impure” food can vary from person to person. It’s important to note that not everyone who follows a healthy eating plan or diet has orthorexia. Similar to other eating disorders, the behavior of eating “healthy” or “clean” is used as a way to cope with negative thoughts and feelings or to gain a sense of control. Individuals who use food in this manner may feel extremely anxious or guilty if they consume food they perceive as unhealthy. Dr. Steven Bratman, MD, defined orthorexia in 1997. However, it is not currently recognized as a separate eating disorder in clinical settings. Even though someone with symptoms of orthorexia may not be officially diagnosed with it, the term may still be mentioned when discussing their illness.

Orthorexia shares similarities with anorexia, and someone displaying symptoms of orthorexia may be diagnosed with anorexia if they also meet the criteria for that disorder. Eating disorders that don’t fit the diagnosis of anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder may be classified as “other specified feeding or eating disorder” (OSFED).

Behavioral and psychological indicators
Eliminating certain foods and food groups from their diet to improve their overall health. They may gradually eliminate more and more foods over time.
Modifying an existing theory on healthy eating by incorporating their own beliefs.
Difficulty concentrating.
Making judgments about others’ eating habits.
Being fixated on eating healthily or what is perceived as healthy.
Being overly preoccupied with food choices can disrupt other aspects of life, including relationships or jobs.
Struggling to break personal food rules, even when desired.
Experiencing anxiety, guilt, or feeling dirty after consuming food considered unhealthy.
Relying too much on eating the “correct” food for emotional wellness.
Feeling down or depressed.

Physical indicators
Orthorexia can also lead to physical problems because a person’s beliefs about what is healthy may cause them to eliminate essential nutrients or entire food groups, which may result in malnutrition. Signs of malnutrition may include the following:
Losing weight.
Feeling physically weaker.
Experiencing fatigue.
Taking a prolonged time to recover from illnesses.
Feeling cold.
Having low energy levels.

If you recognize any of the symptoms in yourself or someone you know, it could be a sign of an eating disorder, and it is important to seek advice from a doctor. Identifying orthorexia is the first step to recovery. People with this disorder may not realize the negative impact on their health. Seeking help from a team of professionals is recommended, including a doctor, psychologist, and dietitian. While you may not receive an official diagnosis of orthorexia, specialists will be able to consider your symptoms and feelings to determine the appropriate treatment. Treatment may involve psychotherapy, exposure to trigger foods, behavior modification, and weight restoration. It’s important to note that orthorexia can affect people of all body shapes and sizes, and weight restoration may not be necessary for everyone. Education on nutrition can help eliminate false beliefs about food. Remember, a person does not need to exhibit all of these signs to be considered ill. All eating disorders are serious mental illnesses and should be treated promptly to give the individual the best chance of full recovery.

Sources:
https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/about-eating-disorders/types/other-eating-feeding-problems/orthorexia/