Food is a fundamental part of people's lives, as it provides the nutrients necessary for the proper functioning of the body. However, in today's society, there are various eating disorders that affect a significant percentage of the population. One of these disorders is permarexia, a term used to describe a constant obsession with living a healthy lifestyle and a perfect diet. In this article, we will explore in detail what permarexia is, what its symptoms are, its possible causes and the treatment options available.
What is permarexia ?
Permarexia is an eating disorder that is characterized by the obsessive search for perfect health through food. People who suffer from permarexia are constantly worried about following a diet considered healthy, avoiding any food that they consider "unhealthy" or "harmful" for their body. This obsession with healthy eating can significantly interfere with the daily lives of those who suffer from it, affecting their emotional and physical well-being.
Symptoms of permarexia
Symptoms of permarexia They may vary from person to person, but generally include the following:
- Obsession with following a healthy diet at all times.
- Avoidance of certain foods considered "no" healthy".
- Excessive concern about food ingredients and their impact on health.
- Anxiety when eating away from home or in social situations that involve foods that do not meet the "healthy" criteria.
- Self-imposed strict rules regarding eating.
- Emotional discomfort or feelings of guilt if the self-imposed rules regarding eating are broken.
Causes of permarexia
Permarexia can have various causes, which can be related to genetic, psychological, sociocultural and environmental factors. Some of the possible triggers of permarexia include:
- Social pressure: The pressure of today's society to have a thin, healthy body can contribute to the development of permarexia .
- Perfectionism: Perfectionistic people tend to set very high standards in all areas of their life, including eating.
- Emotional disorders : Permarexia may be related to underlying emotional disorders, such as anxiety or depression.
- Traumatic experiences: Traumatic experiences related to eating or weight past can trigger permarexia.
Treatment of permarexia
Treatment of permarexia generally requires the intervention of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and nutritionists. . The therapeutic approach may include different strategies to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. Some of the treatment options for permarexia include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common therapeutic approaches for the treatment of permarexia. permarexia. This therapy focuses on identifying and modifying the dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors that maintain the eating disorder. Through CBT, people can learn strategies to manage eating-related anxiety and replace negative thought patterns with more adaptive ones.
Nutritional therapy
Nutritional therapy is fundamental in the treatment of permarexia, as it helps people establish a healthier relationship with food and learn to eat in a balanced way and without excessive restrictions. Nutritionists specializing in eating disorders can design personalized nutritional plans that fit the specific needs of each individual.
Group therapy
Participate in group therapy with other people who suffer from permarexia can be beneficial, providing emotional support, understanding and the opportunity to share experiences. Group therapy can help reduce feelings of isolation and encourage learning strategies to cope effectively with the disorder.
Medication
In some cases, treating permarexia It may include the use of medication, especially if the disorder is related to other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications to help control certain symptoms and improve a person's emotional well-being.
Conclusions
In summary, permarexia is an eating disorder characterized by constant obsession with follow a healthy and perfect diet. This obsession can significantly affect the quality of life of those who suffer from it, interfering with their emotional and physical well-being. It is important to detect the symptoms of permarexia in time and seek professional help to address the disorder appropriately.
The treatment of permarexia usually requires the intervention of different health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists and nutritionists, who can work together to address the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. With a comprehensive and personalized therapeutic approach, people suffering from permarexia can learn to establish a more balanced relationship with food and improve their overall well-being.