Healthy Eating Gone Too Far: Four Signs of Orthorexia

Orthorexia is a growing preoccupation with “pure” or “proper” eating that can resemble an eating disorder. The piece highlights four warning signs: extreme, non-medically advised food restrictions; rigid rules about what you’ll eat; social life disruption due to dietary concerns; and persistent anxiety or guilt after breaking your own food rules, along with excessive time spent analyzing ingredient lists. It also notes social media pressure as a contributing factor and recommends consulting a dietitian or mental health professional to determine if it’s just healthy habits or something requiring treatment, with a goal of balanced, varied eating rather than perfection.