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Food-as-Medicine and Orthorexia

Diane V. Capaldi on One Life RadioCan a food-as-medicine lifestyle lead to an eating disorder? Today we're discussing Orthorexia with Diane "V." Capaldi, a.k.a. "Paleo Boss Lady".  Capaldi is an inspiration to us all. She's built her brand and her business sharing her decades-long struggle to overcome M.S., and how she overcame her illness through diet and lifestyle changes alone. But, she wants others to know that her journey to health has come with some negative side effects.For the past nine years, Capaldi has suffered with Orthorexia and other psychological issues as a result of using food as medicine. Orthorexia is an eating disorder driven by an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating. It is common among people following an autoimmune protocol, because unlike other eating disorders, orthorexia revolves around food quality, not quantity.

Capaldi says she has struggled with orthorexia and other psychological issues using food as medicine, but she is working to find a balance. She says that no matter the path we choose for living, everything we learn is simply a template. One size does not fit all. Sticking to a certain plan, even when it has negative effects, is dangerous. You should listen to the experts, but also listen to your body. If you don't feel right about certain aspects of your health and wellness regime, it's OK to adjust accordingly. You know what is best for you. Just listen to your gut and know when to ask questions.
V. Capaldi is an inspiration to us all. We truly appreciate her candor and honesty discussing her battle with Orthorexia and living a food-as-medicine lifestyle. Click to listen to a past One Life Radio segment with V, or watch her TedX talk, "Cultural Collision" to learn more about her experience with food-as-medicine. Or, you can visit paleobosslady.com