What are the possible health effects of orthorexia?
As with any prolonged restrictive diet, vitamin, mineral, nutrient and caloric deficiencies are possible. In the most extreme cases, profound and dangerous weight loss can occur, although weight loss is not the goal (unlike anorexia). Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can give rise to osteopenia, problems with wound healing, hair loss, and heart rhythm issues. Children with orthorexia may have life long relationship issues with food and dieting, however, there are only anecdotal data to support this. Restrictive diets during childhood may have an impact on growth and development.
