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Experts Claim You Might Have an Eating Disorder Without Even Knowing It!

Diets are amongst the most trending topics on the internet today. Everywhere you look, there’s a self-proclaimed expert handing out unsolicited diet advice. A group of niche experts and wellness bloggers birthed the idea of diets centered around “virtuous and clean” foods.

Now, thanks to the fluid nature of social media, most of their philosophies are now part of the mainstream media. Currently, the hashtag “clean-eating” boasts about 50 million posts. Similarly, the year 2020 saw a 40% rise in veganism, and the popularity of detox teas and intermittent fasting continues to rise.

Pexels | An all-green salad is not a balanced meal

Apparently, these trends are marketed for health-related purposes. But, did you know that experts suggest that restrictive eating, such as in diets and fasts, is a type of disordered eating?

What are eating disorders?

The Mayo Clinic classifies eating disorders as tenacious eating behaviors that lay negative impacts on physical, emotional, and social health. A fixation on healthy eating, also known as orthorexia, also falls within the boundaries of that definition. Though the behaviors are different between anorexic/bulimics and orthorexics, the final result, i.e., intense weight loss, remains the same.

What are the related health concerns?

When you psychologically label some foods as “dirty”, obsessive behaviors tend to fire up. This will break out into cycles of binging, followed by guilt. In worst-case scenarios, it can lead to forced isolation and avoidance of social events involving food. Furthermore, while detox teas are considered fine when consumed in limited amounts, excess consumption can adversely affect bowel functions. Fertility issues and hair thinning are also clearcut symptoms of extreme weight loss.

Pexels | Some people go on weeklong detox tea and juice diets

A Harvard University study reveals that the threat of type 2 diabetes increases by 13% amongst individuals consuming a low-gluten or gluten-free diet. This is primarily due to a lack of fiber in the body. The Royal Osteoporosis Society also launched a campaign to show how restrictive eating can affect bone mass when studies reflected a low dairy intake amongst 20% of 18-35 year-olds.

A Final Thought

Despite all negative feats, some people still want to acquire a sustainable lifestyle, for which veganism is an obvious prerequisite. Others can’t consume essential nutrients due to allergies. While dividing foods between “dirty” and “clean” is psychologically damaging, consider classifying them as “unfit” for you specifically, on the basis of personal choice. For nutrients that your body may be falling short of, supplements are your go-to saviors.

Pexels | Supplements provide your body its daily nutrient requirement

Head to your nearest nutritionist today to learn about the supplements your body needs to be healthy.

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