Effective Strategies on How to Manage Orthorexia for Better Health

Healthy eating is a topic you'll find splashed across all forms of media, with thousands of influencers touting a "healthy diet", lists of "healthy foods", and strategies to help people lose weight. While there is nothing inherently wrong with trying to eat healthy, very often this type of messaging plays into the development and exacerbation of certain mental disorders that can have a negative impact on daily life. Orthorexia nervosa is a lesser-known eating disorder that hyper-focuses on food choices and "righteous eating" in ways that can be disruptive to both mental and physical health.

Introduction to Eating Disorders

Eating disorders, including orthorexia nervosa, are serious mental health conditions that can significantly affect an individual’s well-being and daily life. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) recognizes several eating disorders, but orthorexia nervosa is not officially listed, despite being acknowledged by many medical professionals.

Understanding the differences between healthy eating and disordered eating is essential in identifying and managing orthorexia. The National Eating Disorders Association provides valuable resources and support for individuals struggling with these conditions.

Understanding Orthorexia

Orthorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an unhealthy obsession with eating healthy food, which can lead to restrictive eating habits and avoidance of certain foods or entire food groups. This fixation on “righteous eating” can cause significant distress and impairment in daily life, making it essential to seek orthorexia nervosa treatment.

Orthorexia symptoms can be similar to those of other eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, but the primary focus is on food quality rather than weight loss. A balanced diet and healthy relationship with food are critical in managing orthorexia and preventing the development of other eating disorders.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes of orthorexia nervosa are not fully understood, but certain factors, such as a family history of eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive personality traits, and participation in certain food movements (e.g., vegan diets), may contribute to its development. Obsessive compulsive disorder is a common comorbidity with eating disorders like orthorexia.

Social media and the promotion of “clean eating” can also play a role in the emergence of orthorexia, as they often create unrealistic expectations and a sense of guilt around food choices. People can become hyper-focused on healthy eating, food and planning meals, and increase their risk for developing other eating disorders.

Food allergies or intolerances can sometimes be used as a justification for restrictive eating, but it is essential to distinguish between a legitimate medical need and an unhealthy obsession.

The American Psychiatric Association recognizes the complexity of eating disorders and the need for a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Treatment Options

Orthorexia treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, and medication (if necessary) to address underlying issues and promote a healthier relationship with food. Treatment options may depend on certain factors, including severity of symptoms and whether there are co-occurring disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa present.

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are effective approaches in managing disordered eating behaviors and reducing obsessive thoughts.

Exposure therapy, which involves gradually introducing feared foods, can help individuals overcome food fears and develop a more balanced diet.

Acceptance and commitment therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses mindfulness, acceptance, and behavioral change to increase psychological flexibility, which can be especially helpful with disordered behaviors.

Relaxation training and stress management techniques can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.

Addressing Binge Eating

Binge eating is a common feature of various eating disorders, including orthorexia nervosa, and can be addressed through specialized treatment approaches. Night eating syndrome, which involves excessive eating at night, can also be a challenge for individuals with orthorexia, requiring a comprehensive treatment plan.

Obsession with healthy eating and maintaining a healthy diet can lead to extremely restrictive behaviors that can then lead to periods of binge eating unhealthy foods. This can create a vicious cycle of black and white thinking that whipsaws the individual between "healthy eating" (a strict diet) and "cheating," which can cause a great deal of mental distress and disordered behaviors.

Seeking treatment from a qualified healthcare professional is essential in managing binge eating and other disordered eating behaviors. A supportive environment and the development of healthier coping mechanisms can help individuals overcome binge eating and maintain a balanced diet.

Group Therapy and Support

Group therapy can provide a sense of community and support for individuals struggling with orthorexia nervosa, allowing them to share their experiences and learn from others. The National Eating Disorders Association offers various resources, including support groups and online forums, to help individuals connect with others who are going through similar challenges.

Family members and friends can also play a crucial role in supporting their loved ones, especially during the recovery journey. Education and awareness about orthorexia nervosa and other eating disorders can help reduce stigma and promote early intervention.

Exposure Therapy and Nutrition Counseling

Exposure therapy is a valuable approach in addressing food fears and promoting a more balanced diet, as it involves gradually introducing feared foods in a controlled and supportive environment.

Nutrition counseling can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food, focusing on nutritional content, understanding food groups, and variety rather than restrictive eating habits. A registered dietitian or nutritionist can work with individuals to create a personalized meal plan that meets their nutritional needs and promotes overall well-being.

Response prevention, which involves resisting the urge to engage in restrictive eating behaviors, can be an effective strategy in managing orthorexia.

Commitment to Recovery

Recovery from orthorexia nervosa requires a commitment to change and a willingness to challenge underlying beliefs and behaviors. Developing a growth mindset and embracing the process of recovery can help individuals overcome obstacles and maintain motivation.

Self-compassion and self-care are essential in the recovery journey, as they promote emotional well-being and reduce the risk of relapse. They can also help to improve body image, which can be a factor in orthorexia nervosa.

Celebrating small victories and acknowledging progress can help individuals stay motivated and focused on their goals and help move the healing process forward.

Emerging Perspectives on Orthorexia

Emerging perspectives on orthorexia nervosa highlight the importance of addressing underlying causes and promoting a comprehensive approach to treatment. The fine line between healthy eating and disordered eating can be challenging to navigate, but education and awareness can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food.

Family history and genetic predisposition can play a role in the development of orthorexia, making it essential to consider these factors in treatment. The verification of orthorexia nervosa as a diagnosable eating disorder can help promote awareness and reduce stigma, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes.

Orthorexia Nervosa Treatment in Austin, TX

Orthorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment, involving psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, and medication (if necessary). Developing a healthier relationship with food and addressing underlying causes can help individuals overcome disordered eating behaviors and maintain a balanced diet.

At Williamsburg Therapy Group, our team of doctoral-level Austin psychotherapists allows you to work with a trained professional that can offer a variety of tips and practical strategies to help you manage stress, understand proper nutrition, improve body image, and reduce obsessive behaviors.

If you suspect you or a family member may be struggling with orthorexia nervosa, reach out to our customer service coordinator to get matched with a professional who can offer tools and strategies to help you gain a healthier relationship with eating and improve your mental well-being.