Fear of food is also calledcibophobia.
Its a jot down ofspecific phobia, which is classified as ananxiety disorder.
Having cibophobia means that you have a deep, irrational fear of food.
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This can be limited to certain foods or beverages, or it may include many foods.
If left untreated, cibophobia can impact your quality of life as well as your nutrition.
This article explains the symptoms and causes of cibophobia and discusses the different treatment options available.
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What Is Cibophobia?
When a person has an extreme fear of food, its called cibophobia.
The fear can be so intense that it disrupts daily activities.
In severe cases, a person may fear almost all foods, which can result inmalnutrition.
Cibophobia isn’t classified as an eating disorder.
However, a person can develop cibophobia from disordered eating or have both conditions at the same time.
Symptoms of Cibophobia
The symptoms of cibophobia are very similar to the symptoms of other specific phobias.
A person with cibophobia will often experiencesevere anxietyor havepanic attacksaround trigger foods.
Depending on the severity of cibophobia, symptoms can be difficult to detect.
Getting a diagnosis of a specific phobia involves a visit with a licensed mental healthcare provider.
This guide uses the following diagnostic criteria to diagnose specific phobias:
Is Cibophobia Part of OCD?
Not all people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have a fear of food.
However, someone can have both OCD and cibophobia.
Causes of Cibophobia
The exact cause of specific phobias, including cibophobia, remains unknown.
An estimated 19 million adults in the United States live with a specific phobia.
This helps you interact with and confide in others who share the same struggles.
Additionally,exercising regularly, andrelaxation, visualization, andbreathing techniquesmay help reduce symptoms associated with specific phobias.
Summary
Fear of food is also known as cibophobia.
This is a specific bang out of phobia that causes an irrational and constant fear of food.
If you suspect that you or a loved one has cibophobia, consider talking with a licensed healthcare provider.
They can refer you to a mental healthcare professional.
Treatment for cibophobia includes CBT, medications, hypnotherapy, and exposure therapy.
Many people also find it beneficial to join a support group to improve coping skills.
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