ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

What psychological issue can arise from an obsession with eating healthy?

1. Orthorexia

2. Binge eating disorder

3. Bulimia nervosa

4. Night eating syndrome

The correct answer is: Orthorexia

The correct response identifies orthorexia as a psychological issue that can develop from an obsessive focus on eating healthy foods. Orthorexia is characterized by an unhealthy preoccupation with consuming foods that one considers healthy or pure, leading to restrictive eating patterns. This condition can cause significant distress and may interfere with daily life, as individuals may become overly anxious about the quality of their food and its sourcing. People with orthorexia often experience feelings of guilt or anxiety when they consume foods that do not align with their strict dietary beliefs. This fixation on food quality can overshadow other aspects of their lives, leading to social isolation and a concerning relationship with food itself. Unlike other eating disorders, orthorexia specifically revolves around the idea of healthy eating to an excessive degree, which makes it distinct from conditions like binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, or night eating syndrome, all of which have different behavioral and emotional profiles. In summary, orthorexia is a relevant concept that illustrates the potential downside of health-focused eating behaviors, demonstrating how an intention to eat well can spiral into an unhealthy obsession that affects overall well-being.