We often think of wellness and health as the same thing, but recent research has found that an unhealthy obsession with our well-being makes us more ill. This heightened fixation on achieving perfection in health, fitness, or appearance can lead to a cycle of behaviors that have severe physical and mental health consequences.

Let's unpack why wellness culture contributes to ill health and what you can do to create sustainable self-care practices without sacrificing your well-being.

Shutterstock/ Getty Images | Being healthy should be part of your overall lifestyle.

The Pressure to Be “Perfectly Healthy”

In today's fast-paced society, immense pressure exists to be "perfectly healthy." We are bombarded with images of idealized bodies on social media and in advertising, which can lead to comparisons and unrealistic expectations.

This unattainable goal of perfectionism can contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. People may feel guilty or ashamed if they cannot keep up with strict diets or exercise regimes, leading to a negative cycle of self-criticism. It is important to recognize that health includes physical and mental wellness and that we all have different needs and abilities.

The Dangers of Clean Eating

Clean eating and focusing on consuming only “healthy” food have become popular in recent years. Still, it is important to recognize the potential dangers that come with this obsession. While nourishing our bodies with nutritious foods is crucial, becoming fixated on only consuming certain foods can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food.

Shutterstock/ Eat This Not That | Clean Eating is your home for clean cooking and clean living.

Additionally, some “clean” foods can be detrimental to our health, such as excessive sugar in certain types of dried fruit. Approaching food with balance and moderation is crucial, rather than strict rules and restrictions.

Impact on Self-Esteem

Social media has put tremendous pressure on individuals to look perfect. With influencers and celebrities constantly flaunting their ideal appearances, it's easy for people to feel inadequate about their bodies. The constant desire to look flawless can take a toll on an individual's self-esteem, causing them to feel anxious, depressed, and unhappy.

It's important to remember that nobody is perfect, and imperfections are what make us unique. It's essential to focus on our strengths rather than our flaws and learn to love ourselves for who we are.

Moira Lawler/ Everyday Health | Approximately 28.8 million Americans develop an eating disorder at some point in their lives

Disordered Eating

Disordered eating is a serious condition that affects a person's physical and mental health. It doesn't just refer to the extreme behaviors associated with anorexia or bulimia but can encompass a wide range of behaviors, from binge eating to chronic dieting. Regardless of the manifestation, disordered eating takes a toll on a person's body, leading to health problems such as heart disease, gastrointestinal issues, and nutrient deficiencies.

Moreover, it can also negatively impact one's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. It is important for anyone struggling with disordered eating to seek professional help as soon as possible to begin the journey toward recovery and a healthier life.