Within the search for a healthy and balanced life, many times we tend to associate these terms only with leaving aside habits that are usually identified with poor diet, although the reality is that this also encompasses not losing your head and balance, as far as “eating healthy” is concerned.

Of course, along this path, some runners may find themselves in delicate territory where the obsession with a “clean” diet can transform into a worrying disorder: orthorexia. This disorder, still little known, is characterized by an extreme obsession with consuming foods considered “healthy.”

In this article, we will explore in depth what orthorexia is, its telltale symptoms, the possible causes behind this obsession, as well as its physical and mental consequences. Additionally, we will address treatment strategies to regain a healthy and sustainable balance in the lives of marathon runners.

What are the symptoms of Orthorexia?

Individuals suffering from orthorexia show a pathological obsession with consuming foods considered “pure” or “clean.”

This manifests itself through an obsessive concern for the nutritional quality of foods, extreme control over diet, exclusion of entire food groups, and a moral judgment associated with what is considered “good” or “bad” in terms of food quality. These behaviors can lead to social isolation, extreme anxiety, and impaired quality of life.

This is how Dr. Joaquín Puerma, endocrinologist, describes it :

Orthorexia is an obsession with healthy food that dominates the life of those who suffer from it. People with orthorexia rigorously prioritize the origin and quality of their food.Joaquín Puerma, Doctor specializing in Endocrinology and Nutrition

Causes of Orthorexia

The exact causes of orthorexia are not fully defined, but various factors can contribute to its development. This includes social pressure to follow healthy diets, the influence of media that promotes unrealistic standards of beauty and health, as well as certain personality traits such as perfection and anxiety.

Consequences of Orthorexia

Orthorexia can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies due to extreme restriction of entire food groups, which can result in physical health problems such as malnutrition, muscle weakness, gastrointestinal disorders, and hormonal disruptions. Additionally, significant mental health effects have been observed, such as anxiety, depression, social isolation, and decreased quality of life.

Treatment of Orthorexia

Treatment of orthorexia generally involves a multidisciplinary approach that includes intervention from mental health and nutritional professionals. Cognitive behavioral therapies are commonly used to address dysfunctional thought patterns related to food and body image.

Furthermore, the importance of establishing a healthy relationship with food is emphasized, as is reeducating about balanced nutrition and working on body acceptance. One must understand that there are different types of bodies, so falling into the idealization of beauty canons shown in the media and in RRSS can be extremely harmful.

Therefore, although orthorexia is not yet officially recognized as a disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), it is a worrying pattern of behavior that affects the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it.

Professional support and awareness of the importance of balance and moderation in eating are essential to addressing this condition and regaining a healthy, sustainable lifestyle for marathon runners and anyone affected by this obsession with “perfect” eating.

Image source: DepositPhotos

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