Orthorexia Nervosa and Physical Activity: Impact on Food Choices and Quality of Life In Healthcare Workers

Objective: Orthorexia Nervosa (ON) which is formed by the combination of many factors such as biological, psychological and social factors, reduce the quality of life by affecting food choices. To evaluate the relationship between ON and physical activity status with food selection and quality of life among healthcare personnel at Balıkesir State Hospital in Türkiye. Methods: Sociodemographic characteristics and nutritional status, “ Orthorexia Nervosa Rating Scale (ORTO-15 Scale),” “International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)”, “Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-27)”, “Food Consumption Frequency (FFQ)”, and “3-Day Food Consumption Record Form (2 weekdays-1 weekend day)” administered in person to 400 participants. Results: The participants exhibited signs of orthorexia in 80.2% of cases. Other healthcare professionals were most active group (22.5%), while doctors were most inactive (29.7%). Healthcare workers with orthorexic tendencies frequently consumed water, beverages, and dairy products, whereas individuals with typical eating habits commonly consumed fats. Very active health workers most frequently consume fats, inactive nurses and doctors consume water and beverages, and inactive health workers consume milk. Physical activity status affects quality of life, and as “IPAQ Total” scores increased, “General Health Status”, “Physical Health” and “Environment” sub-factor scores of WHOQOL-27 increased (p