The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Orthorexia Nervosa

Obsession with 'healthy eating' that locks the person into rigid dietary rules.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Orthorexia Nervosa?

Orthorexia nervosa is characterized by excessive focus on foods perceived as 'pure' and 'healthy,' rejection of all other foods, and disruption of daily life by the obsession.

It is not formally recognized as a diagnosis in DSM-5, but clinically it shares features of eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

It can lead to social isolation, malnutrition, and psychological distress.

Symptoms

Hours of intense thought devoted to food choices
A very restricted range of food groups
Refusal to eat outside the home
Detailed reading of food labels
Excessive guilt after eating 'forbidden' food
Judgmental attitude toward those who do not eat 'healthily'
Avoidance of social activities

Risk Factors

Perfectionistic personality
History of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder
Working in healthcare or the fitness industry
Influence of social media
Prior eating disorder

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Social isolation due to food choices
  • Constant worry and anxiety
  • Weight loss and nutritional deficiency
  • Severe guilt over breaking the diet
  • Deterioration of physical health

Treatment Methods

01
Cognitive-behavioral therapy
02
Nutrition education with a dietitian
03
Exposure-based treatments
04
Treatment of accompanying OCD
05
Group therapy
06
Family education and support

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Psikiyatri Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Psikiyatri

Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive, difficult-to-control worry most days for at least six months, accompanied by physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep disturbance that impair daily functioning.

Psychiatric Insomnia and Sleep Disorders

Psikiyatri

Effects of depression, anxiety and other psychiatric disorders on sleep and their treatment.

Depression

Psikiyatri

What is depression, how does it differ from sadness, and how is it treated?

Anxiety Disorder

Psikiyatri

What is anxiety disorder, how does it differ from normal worry, and how is it overcome?

Panic Attack

Psikiyatri

What is a panic attack, how is this condition — often confused with a heart attack — managed and prevented?

OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)

Psikiyatri

What is OCD, how are intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors treated?

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

Psikiyatri

What is PTSD, how are flashbacks and hyperarousal after trauma treated?

Bipolar Disorder

Psikiyatri

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood disorder characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania alternating with depressive episodes; accurate diagnosis and long-term treatment with mood stabilizers are essential to reduce relapses and improve functioning.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.