How can Restricted Eating relate to OCD?

Restricted eating refers to a pattern of highly selective or limited food intake that goes beyond typical dietary preferences or restrictions.

It is often associated with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, but it can also be observed in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) who have specific food-related obsessions and compulsions.

Here's how restricted eating can relate to OCD:

1. Obsessions with Restricted Eating:

   In OCD, individuals experience recurrent and intrusive thoughts or obsessions. Some individuals with OCD may have food-related obsessions, such as fears of contamination, fears of eating "unsafe" or "impure" foods, fears of perceived allergies, or concerns about the consequences of eating certain foods. These obsessions can lead to restrictive eating patterns as a way to alleviate anxiety or prevent perceived negative outcomes.

2. Compulsions of Restricted Eating: 

   Compulsions in OCD are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce distress or prevent feared outcomes. In the context of restricted eating and OCD, individuals may engage in compulsive behaviors related to food, such as excessively checking labels, weighing or measuring food portions, following strict dietary rules, or engaging in elaborate food preparation rituals. These compulsions serve to maintain a sense of control and alleviate anxiety related to food.

3. Fear and Anxiety: 

   Both restricted eating and OCD involve significant fear and anxiety. Individuals with restricted eating may experience fear around specific foods, weight gain, or loss of control over their eating. Similarly, individuals with OCD may experience intense fear and anxiety related to their food-related obsessions. In both cases, restrictive eating behaviors may be an attempt to manage or alleviate this fear and anxiety.

4. Perfectionism and Control: 

   OCD and restricted eating often share common traits, such as perfectionism and a desire for control. Individuals with OCD may have perfectionistic tendencies that manifest in their food-related obsessions and the need for strict adherence to specific rules or rituals. Restricted eating can provide a sense of control and accomplishment, which may temporarily reduce anxiety for individuals with OCD.

5. Treatment Approaches to restricted eating:

   Treatment for restricted eating related to OCD typically involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both the eating disorder and the OCD symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), specifically exposure and response prevention (ERP), is often utilized to target food-related obsessions and compulsions. ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to feared foods or situations while resisting the urge to engage in restrictive behaviors. Nutritional counseling and support may also be included in the treatment plan.

It's important to note that while some individuals with OCD may experience restricted eating, not all individuals with restricted eating have OCD. 

Restricted eating can occur in various eating disorders and can have multiple underlying factors. If you or someone you know is experiencing restricted eating behaviors or food-related obsessions and compulsions, it is advisable to seek a comprehensive evaluation at Kairos Wellness Collective for both eating disorders and OCD. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.

Please contact Kairos Wellness today to learn more about OCD and disordered eating.