Do I suffer from Orthorexia nervosa?
Asked by anonymous on Feb 26, 2009
in Eating Disorders
I've been constantly obsessing over eating only raw, or otherwise healthy unprocessed foods over the past month. I've practically just been living off of natural grains and carrots for a while now and food along with the need to eat healthy is constantly on my mind. What can I do to get back to normal again?
Answer
Orthorexia is an obsession with eating health food - to the point where calories are restricted. It is either a form of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or anorexia nervosa. Some orthorexic youths come from homes where there is a preoccupation with good and bad foods. If you suspect that you have an eating disorder, then get evaluated. Since you are 16, tell your pediatrician the whole story and he/she will refer you to a therapist. Eating disorders respond best to treatment when they are caught early and so don't delay.
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