When Healthy Eating Becomes Harmful: Understanding Orthorexia
At Mountain Valley Counseling, we often see clients who come to us not because they want to give up their healthy habits—but because those habits have started to take control of their lives. One lesser-known but increasingly common issue is Orthorexia Nervosa, an unhealthy obsession with eating only foods that are perceived as healthy, pure, or clean.
What Is Orthorexia?
Orthorexia is not officially recognized as a distinct eating disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but many clinicians acknowledge its serious impact. The term was coined in 1997 by Dr. Steven Bratman to describe an extreme fixation on healthy eating.
Unlike other eating disorders that focus on quantity (like anorexia or binge eating), orthorexia focuses on quality. It’s not just about avoiding sugar or processed foods—it’s about a rigid mindset that labels entire food groups as “bad,” leads to chronic anxiety around food, and often results in social isolation or physical health issues due to overly restrictive diets.
Signs of Orthorexia
If you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, here are some common signs to look out for:
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Obsessive focus on food quality and sourcing (e.g., organic, non-GMO, raw)
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Eliminating entire food groups for non-medical reasons
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Feeling guilt or shame after eating foods considered “unhealthy”
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A sense of superiority or moral judgment based on food choices
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Anxiety or distress when “safe” foods aren’t available
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Decline in social life due to rigid food rules
The Mental Health Impact
At first, orthorexia might feel like a positive lifestyle choice—but over time, it can become mentally and physically exhausting. The rigid rules can lead to malnutrition, emotional burnout, obsessive thinking, and isolation. In some cases, orthorexia co-occurs with anxiety, OCD, or other eating disorders, making it harder to break the cycle alone.
You Deserve Support
If food is starting to feel like a source of stress, shame, or control, know that you’re not alone—and help is available. At Mountain Valley Counseling, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with disordered eating patterns, including orthorexia.
We focus on helping you rebuild a peaceful relationship with food and body, free from fear and rigid rules. With the guidance of our experienced therapists, you can learn to reconnect with your body’s natural cues, reframe unhelpful thoughts, and nourish yourself in ways that support both mental and physical health.
Next Steps
Whether you’re ready to schedule an appointment or just want to learn more, our team at Mountain Valley Counseling is here to help. We offer in-person and virtual sessions tailored to your needs.
📞 Call us at 435-565-1305 to get scheduled. or email Tess@mvccutah.com.
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