Is a health-conscious lifestyle potentially hazardous? The phenomenon of orthorexia
Isabella Taylor
2026-03-21
9 min. read
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Undeniably, healthy eating is gaining increasing popularity. Many individuals are interested in maintaining their health and make efforts to adhere to the principles of dietary balance. However, in specific instances, the desire to maintain a healthy diet can transform into a disorder that may have a negative impact on the body. Could it be that a lifestyle centered on health might initiate a dangerous disease?
Orthorexia fundamental information
Orthorexia is a new type of eating disorder that has not yet been recognized as an independent entity. The term is derived from the Greek words 'orthos', meaning 'correct', as well as 'orexia' appetite. This term refers to the obsessive control of meals consumed, choosing only healthy products, and also those of the highest quality. The concept of orthorexia was introduced by American physician Steven Bratman, who was convinced of the effects of a strict elimination diet. Based on his own observations and those of his patients, he concluded that excessive focus on nutrition can lead to significant restrictions in food intake and be dangerous for the health and life of the affected individual. In the most advanced stage, many patients completely abstain from consuming any food, leading to insufficient coverage of energy needs and consequently to malnutrition. It is estimated that orthorexia occurs in 7% of the population, with it being more common in men (A. Michalska et al. 2016).
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