Rethinking Wellness
Chronic Illness, Orthorexia, and Alternative Medicine with Asher Pandjiris
Nov 11, 2024
Asher Pandjiris, a psychotherapist and expert in disordered eating, dives deep into the complexities of chronic illness and the allure of alternative medicine. They discuss their personal experiences with autoimmune diets and the potential pitfalls of orthorexia. The conversation touches on the cultural values that shape wellness culture and the challenges of strict dietary adherence. Asher also explores how their queer and non-binary identity influences their healthcare journey, raising critical questions about cultural appropriation and the ethics of alternative healing.
39:15
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Quick takeaways
- Individuals with chronic illnesses often turn to alternative medicine after feeling sidelined by traditional Western medical practices, seeking a sense of belonging and understanding.
- The pursuit of dietary purity among those with chronic illnesses can lead to orthorexia, highlighting the problematic nature of wellness culture's promises of symptom-free living.
Deep dives
Navigating Alternative Medicine and Autoimmune Conditions
Living with autoimmune conditions often leads individuals to explore various treatment options, including alternative medicine. Personal experiences reveal that many turn to naturopaths and wellness practitioners after facing challenges with traditional Western medical approaches that lack understanding or adequate relief. This search for control over health can manifest in trying numerous diets and remedies in hopes of alleviating symptoms, but often results in little to no change. The journey underscores the problematic allure of wellness culture's promises, such as symptom-free living offered through dietary restrictions and lifestyle changes.
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