What is Orthorexia Nervosa?
Orthorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an unhealthy obsession with “clean” or “healthy” eating. Though often disguised as a wellness-focused lifestyle, orthorexia can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences due to rigid food rules and restrictive behaviors.
While not officially recognized in the DSM-5, orthorexia is increasingly acknowledged by professionals and treated with the same care as other eating disorders. It often involves anxiety, guilt, or shame around food, and may lead to social isolation or malnutrition.
5 Signs & Symptoms of Orthorexia
Obsessive Focus on Healthy Eating
A compulsive desire to eat only foods deemed “pure” or “clean,” often eliminating entire food groups.
Food Anxiety and Guilt
Extreme guilt or distress when deviating from dietary rules, often leading to punishment or further restriction.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Despite good intentions, overly restrictive diets may cause weight loss, fatigue, or other health complications.
Social Isolation Due to Food Beliefs
Avoidance of social situations involving food due to fear of eating something “unhealthy.”
Inflexible Food Rules
Adherence to strict food guidelines that interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and mental health.
Treatment Options for Orthorexia Nervosa
Our Las Vegas Luxury Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Center
Our Las Vegas inpatient treatment center provides 24/7 care in a structured and supportive environment. Here, clients receive individualized treatment plans that combine medical monitoring, nutritional counseling, and therapy to address the physical and emotional aspects of compulsive overeating.
This facility is designed to help individuals step away from daily stressors and immerse themselves fully in recovery with a dedicated care team available around the clock.
Our Las Vegas Outpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Center
For individuals who do not require inpatient care or who are transitioning back into daily life, our Las Vegas outpatient center provides flexible treatment options.
Outpatient programs allow clients to receive structured therapy, nutritional counseling, and group support while continuing to live at home. This level of care is ideal for those balancing recovery with work, school, or family responsibilities.
Our Las Vegas Adolescent / Teen Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Center
At Virtue Recovery, we recognize that compulsive overeating and other eating disorders affect teens differently than adults. Our Adolescent / Teen Inpatient Eating Disorder Program is designed specifically to meet the unique needs of young people and their families.
Our teen program combines medical monitoring, therapeutic support, and nutritional counseling with age-appropriate strategies that foster resilience, confidence, and healing.
