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Evidence and gaps in the literature on orthorexia nervosa

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Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity Aims and scope Submit manuscript

An Erratum to this article was published on 07 May 2013

Abstract

Aim

To review the literature on the prevalence, risk groups and risk factors of the alleged eating disorder orthorexia nervosa.

Methods

We searched Medline and Pubmed using several key terms relating to orthorexia nervosa (ON) and checked the reference list of the articles that we found. Attention was given to methodological problems in these studies, such as the use of non-validated assessment instruments, small sample size and sample characteristics, which make generalization of the results impossible.

Results

Eleven studies were found. The average prevalence rate for orthorexia was 6.9 % for the general population and 35–57.8 % for high-risk groups (healthcare professionals, artists). Dieticians and other healthcare professionals are at high risk of ON. Risk factors include obsessive–compulsive features, eating-related disturbances and higher socioeconomic status. Relevant clinical experience, published literature and research data have increased in the last few years.

Discussion

The definition and diagnostic criteria of ON remain unclear. Further studies are needed to clarify appropriate diagnostic methods and the place of ON among psychopathological categories.

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Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad tér 4, Budapest, 1089, Hungary

    Márta Varga, Szilvia Dukay-Szabó & Ferenc Túry

  2. Center for Eating Disorders Ursula, Veursestraatweg 185, 2264, EG Leidschendam, Leidschendam, The Netherlands

    F. van Furth Eric

Authors
  1. Márta Varga
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  2. Szilvia Dukay-Szabó
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  3. Ferenc Túry
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  4. F. van Furth Eric
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Correspondence to Márta Varga.

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Varga, M., Dukay-Szabó, S., Túry, F. et al. Evidence and gaps in the literature on orthorexia nervosa. Eat Weight Disord 18, 103–111 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40519-013-0026-y

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