Health experts are highlighting orthorexia during Eating Disorder Awareness Week as a condition where individuals obsess over healthful eating habits. Shanthi Appelo, a registered dietician with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, said the condition involves a focus on “clean eating” that becomes rigid and harmful.
The condition often manifests through obsessive tracking of food and exercise, leading to a disconnect from natural hunger cues. Appelo noted that while healthy diets and regular exercise are key to preventing chronic conditions, the behavior becomes a disorder when it starts 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 the condition 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 obsesses over proper or healthful eating habits,” Appelo said. She noted that these online portrayals can lead viewers to feel they must achieve similar standards.
While nutritious foods and regular exercise are foundations of a balanced lifestyle, health experts warned that the pursuit of health can be harmful if it becomes too extreme. Appelo said it is often difficult to recognize early on, but it typically involves a growing disconnect from hunger and fullness cues. “When that pursuit of health becomes too rigid or extreme, that’s where it can kind of quietly start doing harm,” Appelo said. She added that the focus shifts from nourishment 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 shifts, such as obsessively tracking calories, macronutrients or steps. Individuals may compulsively check ingredient lists even without having food allergies or develop a fear of eating food prepared outside of the home. Physically, the condition can manifest as poor sleep, muscle pain and stiffness. Appelo mentioned that these signs can be subtle, particularly when they involve exercise routines. “We have to recognize that, as a partner of exercise, the rest component is also so important,” Appelo said.
To support someone who may be struggling, Appelo suggests being an open-minded listener and involving a medical professional. She emphasized 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 dominate it,” Appelo said. She noted that a healthy balance involves enjoying foods without labeling them as “good” or “bad” and moving the body in ways that feel supportive.
Health professionals recommend seeing a primary care physician or engaging in talk therapy if healthy habits turn into intense feelings of anxiety, exhaustion or restriction. Appelo noted the beginning of the year is an ideal time for check-ups and to seek guidance on behavioral health resources.
Resources for behavioral health access lines and additional information are available at healthiermichigan.org.