Orthorexia Nervosa: A literature review on its general aspects

Abstract

Orthorexia Nervosa (ON) is defined by the pathological fixation on healthy foods, with obsessive-pathological behavior due to the consumption of this food pattern. Relating nowadays to the standards stipulated and imposed by a society that is doctrine by social media. This article aims to review the current knowledge on the epidemiology, risk factors and diagnostic criteria of Orthorexia Nervosa. For the elaboration of this article, studies and systematic review materials were used in electronic health databases; being the keyword used “Orthotexia Nervosa”. Studies, however scarce, demonstrate the need for diagnosis and appreciation of Orthorexia Nervosa, while a clear correlation with obsessive disorders and other eating disorders. Using clinical tools and questionnaires (BOT and ORTO-15) for diagnosis, in addition to a multidisciplinary treatment. Currently, Orthorexia Nervosa admits that it is a deviation from eating behavior that is still little studied and recognized in Brazil.