When we discover that diet has had a major impact on our current state of ill health, some of us can overcompensate by going “all out” on what is supposedly good for us. The problem can occur regardless of the type of diet you follow, but people who suddenly switch their established eating patterns are potentially more susceptible to an unexpected danger.

Orthorexia, or orthorexia nervosa, is an eating disorder characterised by an unhealthy obsession with eating foods perceived as “pure,” “clean,” or “healthy.” While prioritising healthy eating can be positive, orthorexia goes beyond this by creating a rigid, obsessive, and often harmful relationship with food.

Fully blown, it can lead to negative physical, emotional, and social consequences.

Orthorexia often involves eliminating entire food groups or severely limiting food options based on their perceived health benefits. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies (e.g., lack of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, or minerals) and associated health issues, such as anemia, weakened immunity, and bone density loss.

People in this category often fall victim to the “superfood” fallacy – the idea that one particular vegetable, drink or set range of foods should be consumed over and above anything else.

Dangerous outcomes

At its worst, orthorexia can lead to sudden and dangerous weight loss, malnutrition, hormonal imbalances, fatigue, digestive issues, and other physical health challenges.

The obsession with “eating correctly” can increase anxiety, stress, and depression. Feelings of guilt or shame may arise if a person eats foods they deem “unhealthy.” Over time, this can lead to a cycle of self-persecution and heightened mental distress.

People with orthorexia may avoid social situations involving food they consider unhealthy (e.g., parties, family dinners, or casual outings). This can strain relationships, create feelings of loneliness, and lead to withdrawal from important social or cultural connections.

The condition can overlap with or develop into more severe eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, as the focus on dietary control intensifies. Food becomes a source of stress rather than nourishment and pleasure, and this distorted relationship with food can overshadow other important aspects of life.

Overcoming orthorexia requires self-awareness, professional guidance, and intentional efforts to challenge unhealthy food-related beliefs. Recovery is a process, but with support and commitment, it’s possible to rebuild a balanced, joyful relationship with food and prioritise true well-being over perfection.

Whole food plant-based advocates (WFPB) stress that the goodness in food doesn’t belong to a single category – it’s a symphony. Good health doesn’t develop by isolating, say vitamin C from an orange, or from eating broccoli alone.

WFPB advocates encourage followers to eat the rainbow when it comes to colour and be mindful that good health never comes from the food alone. Regular, moderate exercise is essential, along with maintaining healthy social connections.

There’s a way out

If you recognise that your food selection may have become obsessive, don’t panic! It can be changed. The first step is to accept that things are this way at the moment, but they don’t have to remain this way in future.

One suggestion is to work with a registered dietitian, therapist, or medical professional who specialises in eating disorders. They can guide you toward developing a balanced perspective on nutrition and addressing underlying emotional triggers.

Orthorexia often stems from a desire for control, fear of illness, or societal pressure to conform to certain health ideals. Therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can help uncover and resolve these root issues.

The aim (and challenge) here is to shift your perspective on health to encompass not only physical well-being but also mental, emotional, and social aspects. True health goes beyond dietary choices and includes overall life balance.

Finally, it might also pay to limit your exposure to social media accounts, websites, or other content promoting unrealistic or restrictive dietary practices. Instead, follow resources that endorse balance and well-being