Health experts are highlighting orthorexia during Eating Disorders Awareness Week as a condition where individuals become obsessed with healthy eating habits. Shanti Appello, a registered dietitian with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, said this condition involves a focus on “clean eating” that becomes rigid and harmful.
This condition often manifests through obsessive tracking of food and exercise, leading to dissociation from natural hunger cues. Appelo said that while a healthy diet and regular exercise are important for preventing chronic conditions, a behavior becomes a disorder when it begins to dominate a person’s life and cause mental or physical distress.
Orthorexia is not yet defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the standard manual used by health professionals. Appelo said this situation is becoming more prevalent as people see social media influencers posting about “perfect” eating and exercise habits. “It’s basically an eating disorder where a person loses sight of appropriate or healthy eating habits,” Appello said. He said these online portrayals can make viewers feel like they should be held to the same standards.
While nutritious food and regular exercise are the foundation of a balanced lifestyle, health experts warn that the pursuit of health can be harmful if it goes too far. Appello said it’s often difficult to recognize at first, but it usually involves an increased disconnect from hunger and fullness cues. “When the pursuit of health becomes too drastic or extreme, it can quietly begin to cause harm,” Appello said. She said the focus shifts from nutrition to constant monitoring to stay within strict rules, which can lead to feelings of guilt or discomfort.
Warning signs of orthorexia include mental and behavioral changes, such as obsessively tracking calories, macronutrients, or steps. Individuals even without food allergies may compulsively check ingredient lists or develop a fear of eating food prepared outside the home. Physically, this condition can manifest as poor sleep, muscle pain, and stiffness. Appello noted that these signs can be subtle, especially when they involve exercise routines. “We have to recognize that, as exercise partners, the other components are also very important,” Appello said.
To support someone who may be struggling, Appello suggests being an open-minded listener and involving a medical professional. He stressed the importance of finding a balance where health serves a person’s life rather than dominating it. “Basically you’re letting your health serve your life and not let it dominate you,” Appello said. She said a healthy balance includes enjoying foods without labeling them as “good” or “bad” and moving the body in ways that feel supportive.
If healthy habits turn into intense feelings of anxiety, exhaustion, or restriction, health professionals recommend seeing a primary care physician or engaging in talk therapy. Appelo said the beginning of the year is an ideal time for check-ups and guidance on behavioral health resources.
Resources for behavioral health access lines and additional information are available here healthymichigan.org.
