Larry King Now Season 3 Episode 144 When Healthy Eating Becomes an Unhealthy Obsession

Larry King Now season 3 episode 144 titled "When Healthy Eating Becomes an Unhealthy Obsession" explores the concept of orthorexia, an extreme preoccupation with healthy eating and clean eating that goes beyond a normal healthy diet and becomes an unhealthy fixation.

The episode features Dr. Jennie Matuschka, a clinical psychologist who specializes in eating disorder treatment, and Dr. Steven Bratman, the physician who coined the term orthorexia.

Larry King begins the episode by asking Dr. Bratman to define orthorexia and how it differs from other eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia. Dr. Bratman explains that orthorexia is not officially recognized as a mental disorder in the DSM-5, but it is considered a subtype or variation of anorexia, as it is characterized by strict food rules, fear of certain foods, and an obsessive focus on healthy eating.

Dr. Matuschka adds that many people who struggle with orthorexia often begin as individuals who want to improve their health and well-being, but this can become extreme when the focus on healthy eating becomes all-consuming. She notes that social media platforms often perpetuate this fixation, as individuals may feel pressure to follow "perfect" and "clean" diets.

The conversation then delves into how orthorexia can impact an individual's physical and mental health. Dr. Matuschka mentions that individuals with orthorexia may experience physical symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and malnutrition, as well as mental and emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Dr. Bratman adds that orthorexia can also lead to a sense of superiority and judgment towards others who don't follow the same strict dietary rules, creating strained relationships and even further social isolation.

Larry King asks about the treatment options for orthorexia, and both Dr. Matuschka and Dr. Bratman stress the importance of seeking professional help from a qualified mental health professional who specializes in eating disorders. Dr. Matuschka notes that treatment often involves addressing underlying emotional and psychological issues and working with a registered dietitian to establish a healthy and balanced relationship with food.

The episode concludes with Larry King thanking Dr. Matuschka and Dr. Bratman for their expertise and insights into the complex topic of orthorexia. Viewers are left with a better understanding of the dangers of an extreme focus on healthy eating and the importance of seeking help if they or a loved one are struggling with orthorexia.

Overall, Larry King Now season 3 episode 144 provides a valuable education on the topic of orthorexia, shedding light on a little-known but increasingly common form of eating disorder that can have serious physical and mental consequences.