Health experts warn of atypical eating disorders and viral diet risks

At the 67th Congress of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN) in Santiago de Compostela, specialists highlighted the rise of atypical and emerging eating disorders. Dr. Alejandro Sirvent noted that pathological behaviors are increasingly masked by socially valued habits, such as extreme healthy eating or obsessive exercise.

Key clinical concerns include atypical anorexia nervosa, where significant weight loss occurs without necessarily reaching an underweight status, and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Emerging phenomena like orthorexia—an extreme obsession with healthy eating—and muscle dysmorphia (vigorexia) also require clinical attention, despite not yet being formal diagnoses.

Additionally, the influence of social media has increased the adoption of viral diets, such as the ketogenic, carnivore, or Mediterranean diets, often without professional guidance. Experts warn that following influencer-led nutritional plans can lead to physical weakness and fatigue, as these restrictive regimens may not be appropriate for an individual's specific health needs.