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What is the connection between orthorexia nervosa and low self-esteem?
Studies have found that individuals with orthorexia nervosa often display symptoms of anxiety, perfectionism, and a strong need for control, which may stem from underlying self-esteem issues.
The societal emphasis on health and "clean eating" can exacerbate low self-esteem among those with orthorexic tendencies, as they may feel pressure to adhere to rigid dietary rules.
Researchers suggest that the desire to achieve "purity" through strict dietary practices in orthorexia may be driven by a need to compensate for perceived flaws and boost one's self-image.
A 2019 meta-analysis revealed a negative correlation between self-esteem and eating disorder symptoms, including those associated with orthorexia nervosa.
Individuals with orthorexia may tie their self-worth to their ability to maintain a "perfect" diet, leading to feelings of guilt and inadequacy when they perceive they have deviated from their self-imposed rules.
The "Low Self-Mastery" cluster in a study on orthorexia was characterized by high levels of obsession, compulsion, and perfectionism, along with low self-esteem.
Orthorexia has been linked to higher levels of obsessive-compulsive tendencies, which may be a coping mechanism for individuals struggling with low self-esteem.
Research suggests that the cycle of poor self-image fueling rigid dietary practices, which in turn leads to a further decline in self-esteem, is a hallmark of orthorexia nervosa.
One study found that individuals with orthorexia displayed significantly lower self-esteem compared to those without the disorder, highlighting the strong connection between the two.
Orthorexia may be considered a separate eating disorder or part of the obsessive-compulsive disorder spectrum, both of which have been linked to low self-esteem.
The need for control and perfectionism associated with orthorexia can be a way for individuals to compensate for deeper feelings of insecurity and low self-worth.
Addressing the underlying self-esteem issues may be a crucial component in the treatment and recovery process for those suffering from orthorexia nervosa.
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