Adolescents' experiences of the public health nurse's accessibility, guidance, and counseling about sexuality: a qualitative study.

Eating behavior represents both a process aimed at meeting biological needs and a complex construct encompassing psychological and sociocultural dimensions. Personal beliefs, past experiences, and the norms of the society in which they live all influence what individuals eat, how they eat, and when they eat (, ). In contemporary societies, healthy eating has evolved from a simple health-related behavior to a means of expressing individual identity as well as a social status indicator (). Although the high value attributed to healthy eating supports public health, it may also, in some individuals, facilitate rigid and excessive eating patterns, thereby creating a basis for psychological issues (, ). In 1997, Steven Bratman first introduced the concept of orthorexia nervosa (ON), which is derived from the Greek words “orthos” (correct) and “orexis” (appetite) (). Based on his clinical observations, Bratman used the term “orthorexia” to describe individuals who develop obsessive behaviors over time in pursuit of healthy eating. Today, this concept underscores the significance of considering interest in healthy eating across two distinct dimensions: a pathological form known as ON and a nonpathological, more adaptive tendency referred to as healthy orthorexia (HO) (). ON is characterized by an excessive focus on the quality, nutritional value, and purity of food; strict dietary rules; and a marked need for control over eating behavior. Individuals with ON highly prioritize the naturalness and cleanliness of food. This condition involves behavioral, cognitive, and emotional components; violations of self-imposed dietary rules may result in feelings of guilt, anxiety, decreased self-esteem, and compensatory behaviors (–). By contrast, HO reflects an interest in healthy eating without rigid restrictions or excessive control. However, higher HO levels do not necessarily indicate a better quality diet (, ).