When healthy eating is unhealthy: Orthorexia Nervosa and health outcomes

Presenter Information

Alicia McDonough, University at Albany, State University of New YorkFollow

Panel Name

Brain Function and Mental Health: New Approaches in Technology, Psychology, and Neuroscience

Location

Lecture Center 6

Start Date

3-5-2019 3:15 PM

End Date

3-5-2019 4:30 PM

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Academic Major

Psychology

Abstract

Abstract: The purpose of the research is to gain a more clear understanding of the new and emerging disorder known as orthorexia nervosa. Orthorexia nervosa has proven to be a controversial topic within the health field. Researchers are still grappling with whether or not the disease is an eating disorder in itself or a disordered eating behavior that is obsessive-compulsive in nature. Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is characterized as having an intense obsession with foods that an individual deems to be pure and free of harm. Individuals with (ON) may exclude foods from their diet that contain pesticides, additives and artificial substances, genetically modified organisms, etc. In an attempt to remain optimally healthy, behaviors and preferences such as these are masked as being positive. However, such strict adherence often lends its way to a negatively impacted quality of life. I believe that an increase in transparency within the food industry, as well as a rise in our society’s desire to be fit and healthy may provoke the likelihood for an individual to develop (ON). As of now, my goal is to review the existing literature and determine its prevalence and possible implications for diagnosis in populations around the world.

Keywords: orthorexia nervosa, eating disorder, disordered eating behavior

Select Where This Work Originated From

Independent Study

First Faculty Advisor

Dr. Jessica Martin

First Advisor Email

jlmartin@albany.edu

First Advisor Department

Counseling Psychology Department