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COVID Anxiety Fuels Rise in Orthorexia Nervosa

5/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A recent study reveals a troubling link between COVID-19 anxiety and orthorexia nervosa, an unhealthy fixation on "clean" eating, among U.S. adults. Those experiencing heightened anxiety about the virus are more likely to develop symptoms of orthorexia, especially individuals with limited cognitive flexibility, highlighting how stress can fuel harmful eating habits.

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Story summary

A recent study reveals a troubling link between COVID-19 anxiety and orthorexia nervosa, an unhealthy fixation on "clean" eating, among U.S. adults. Those experiencing heightened anxiety about the virus are more likely to develop symptoms of orthorexia, especially individuals with limited cognitive flexibility, highlighting how stress can fuel harmful eating habits.