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Hey there, friends! Let's talk about something we might not always think about: how grief and bereavement can mess with our appetites and our relationship with food. Yep, it's a real thing, and it's worth talking about.
So picture this: you're going through a tough time, and suddenly, food just doesn't taste the same. Maybe you're not hungry at all, or maybe you're stress-eating everything in sight. Sound familiar? Yeah, grief has a funny way of messing with our appetites.
When we're grieving, our emotions can wreak havoc on our eating habits. Some of us might find ourselves losing our appetite completely, unable to stomach even our favorite foods. Others might turn to food for comfort, seeking solace in snacks and treats that provide temporary relief from the pain.
But here's the thing: neither extreme is healthy. Whether you're eating too much or too little, it's important to listen to your body and give it the nourishment it needs. That means finding a balance that works for you, even when grief makes it feel impossible.
The gut mind connection is real. The gastrointestinal tract and your mind work hand and hand. Check out this article here from Harvard Medical School, written in 7/2023, for more information on the gut brain connection. It is truly so fascinating!
And hey, it's okay to ask for help. If you're struggling with your appetite or your relationship with food, reach out to a friend, family member, or healthcare professional who can offer support and guidance. You don't have to go through it alone.
So next time you're feeling out of sorts with your eating habits, remember: it's okay to not be okay. Give yourself grace, listen to your body, and remember that healing takes time. A little comfort food now and then? Totally okay. You're doing the best you can, and that's all that matters.
When my brother first died, I did not eat for almost 2 days. My friends and family forced me to eat. I had no problem consuming alcohol at the time, though, This will lead us into the next blog post where I will discuss over consumption/ using alcohol as coping mechanism from my experiences & research.
As always, this blog is to reflect on personal experiences and share information. Not to provide medical advice or counseling.
If you are in search of resources for eating disorders please click
Until next time, sending love friends!