OCD symptoms
Obsessions
These are uncontrolled intrusive thoughts, fears, image and/or urges that cause excessive worry, anxiety, and distress to the individual experiencing them.
Examples: Fear of germs, doubting tasks completed and fear of putting others/self in danger
Compulsions
These may also be referred to as rituals or actions that the individual "must do" to eliminate the unpleasant feeling caused by the obsessions. Individuals often presume that engaging in these activities is important to prevent bad things from happening to them or their loved ones.
Examples: Repeated washing hands and cleaning, ordering and arranging items, repeating phrases, or mental rituals
OCD treatment for children
In OCD treatment for children, it is the caregiver’s responsibility to differentiate the actual compulsions from the typical routines such as sleeping, eating, bathing, and other activities. Some of the psychosocial therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure response prevention (ERP) can help in recovering from OCD.
Nutrition and eating challenges with OCD
- Co-occurring concerns such as picky eating and eating disorders due to food-related OCDs such as avoiding getting dirty from food, refusing to mix different foods, sorting food by colour, food presentation, mouthfeel, and texture.
- Co-occurring obsessions about one’s body or regarding eating and/or exercise
Avoidance of certain foods or situations that may involve fears of germs - Decreased appetite in response to anxious obsessional thoughts
- Nausea and stomach aches in response to anxious obsessional thoughts
What are the researched nutrition strategies for anxiety disorders?
Meal timing and size: Individuals may benefit from small and frequent meals. Eating every 2-4 hours can help ensure individuals with reduced appetite are getting enough food throughout the day.
Children with OCD regarding food and/or sanitation should be introduced to one food of unusual texture, color, and smell at a time. Try not to modify meals for different food and sanitation-related OCD and develop a meal routine for children.
Micronutrient supplements: These may help reduce episodes of obsessions and compulsions in individuals with OCD. Most of these supplements support biological reactions, metabolism, and brain health. Some of these supplements include:
- N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) amino acid supplement
- Vitamin D supplementation
Vitamin B12 and folate: These nutrients are required in DNA synthesis, growth and development. Studies suggest that individuals with OCD symptoms may have lower levels of vitamin B12, and therefore these supplements may be beneficial.
It is important to note that while these nutrition recommendations have been researched for use in conjunction with other therapies for OCD, there is no strong evidence to suggest that they are effective as a sole treatment for OCD. A Registered Dietitian (RD) can provide more information on nutritional strategies that may be right for you.
Let us help.
It can be challenging to get through the day-to-day when you are struggling with OCD. It can be even more challenging to get a formal diagnosis. At Change Creates Change, our clients do not need a formal diagnosis to work with us. Find out if we are the right fit for you. Book a free consultation call below.
*Reserved for Canadian residents
