The Foods Orthorexics Avoid
Individuals with orthorexia often adhere to personal dietary guidelines, but there are certain common rules that many of them follow. These rules are based on the belief that only foods that make them feel healthy and pure should be consumed, regardless of their actual nutritional value. One of the main restrictions for people with orthorexia is avoiding foods that contain artificial ingredients, such as artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Additionally, they may choose to only consume organic foods that they believe have not been exposed to pesticides. In more severe cases of orthorexia, individuals may completely eliminate fats, sugars, salts, as well as animal and dairy products from their diet.
Reasons for Food Avoidance in Orthorexia Nervosa
Individuals with orthorexia nervosa often base their decision to avoid specific foods on information they deem as logical. This information can come from various sources such as friends, family members, dieticians, websites, articles on healthy foods, or TV programs. Additionally, popular diets and trends play a significant role in shaping the dietary guidelines followed by individuals with orthorexia. While some individuals with orthorexia associate their food avoidance with spirituality, purity, or energy, it is important to note that not all individuals with orthorexia share these beliefs. Some common rules followed by individuals with orthorexia include: