An increasing obsession with “clean eating”, the practice of rigidly following a diet perceived to be pure or healthy, is now being linked to serious mental health challenges and potential eating disorders, according to recent academic findings.
Researchers have raised red flags over the trend of restrictive dietary behaviors, particularly among individuals striving for nutritional perfection. While healthy eating is often encouraged, experts caution that when taken to extremes, it may result in psychological distress, social withdrawal, and nutritional deficiencies.
A study conducted by Semmelweis University in Hungary surveyed 179 fashion models and discovered that over one-third exhibited symptoms of orthorexia nervosa. Orthorexia, though not yet officially recognized in major diagnostic manuals, is increasingly being studied as a harmful obsession with consuming only foods deemed “healthy” or “clean.”
Key warning signs of orthorexia include compulsive adherence to strict food rules, refusal to participate in family gatherings or social events that involve food, and emotional distress when unable to follow their set dietary routine. Sufferers may also experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, brittle nails, and hair loss due to lack of essential nutrients.
Dr. Nikolett Bogar from the Institute of Behavioural Sciences at Semmelweis University explained that limiting one’s diet to specific food groups for instance, eating only raw vegetables, fish, or carbohydrate-free dishes can mirror the nutritional deficiencies observed in individuals with well-known eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia.
The research highlighted that 90% of participants aimed to consume exclusively “clean” foods. This modern fixation reflects a shift from the once-dominant ideal of extreme thinness to a now rigid pursuit of dietary purity. While these individuals may prioritize food quality over quantity, such behavior can become nutritionally inadequate and psychologically taxing.
Experts emphasized that the act of eating should not become a moral decision or a source of punishment. Rigid classification of foods as “good” or “bad” may drive individuals into cycles of guilt, anxiety, and disordered eating patterns. They recommend adopting a long-term, balanced approach to nutrition rather than a narrow and restrictive regimen.
Occasional indulgences, such as eating sweets during holidays, should be considered part of a healthy lifestyle, not a deviation from it. Experts argue that flexibility, rather than perfection, is key to sustainable well-being.
In conclusion, while maintaining a healthy diet is important, it is equally crucial to recognize when dietary control crosses into harmful territory. Raising awareness about orthorexia and encouraging moderation can help prevent the long-term physical and psychological impacts associated with extreme eating behaviors.
