Is it normal that eating is a battle

58% Normal
4 Comments

I have had this problem for about 20 years now. Some time it's no big deal, other times it's a nightmare. When I am stressed or upset I literally can not eat. I try but it's like everything is like cardboard and when I force myself to eat (as I know I have to) I can physically be sick or at least retch. This can go on for months at a time. I had a relationship break up and I pretty much lived on minimum for 4 months, but built myself up gradually as I got over it. When everything is ok my appetite is fine. My dad recently died and it has been hard to eat but I've managed not to lose too much weight. I have told the doc but he suggests eating little and often which is near impossible when stressed. It's not like I want to be thinner so I don't think it's anorexia but it's like when I'm upset I have a mental block against food. Does anyone know what it could be or have similar experiences? Thanks.

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58% Normal
Based on 24 votes (14 yes)
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Comments ( 4 )
  • Juicedrink
    13 years ago

    I don't get effected by what I eat but it's tough. Usually before I eat buffollo wings, Hamburgers, strawberries, and ramen I always feel....weird.

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  • howaminotmyself
    13 years ago

    I had a similar problem with food where everything I ate gave me horrible gas pain, vomiting, and then panic attacks. I had to develop a new relationship with food, as medicine. I experimented with several types of protein shakes until I found one that was tasty. I will suggest that you speak with a Naturopathic doctor who can help you figure out what your body needs to help heal your psyche. In my case, it turned out to be an intolerance to corn and soy, two of the most common ingredients in processed food.

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  • bebedoll96
    13 years ago

    Typically one's appetite is affected when under stress/going through stressful situations. I have a friend who has recently lost a lot of weight, she's very thin now, and it's not because of "anorexia" or "bulimia" but because she has been going through a lot therefore does not have any appetite/desire to eat or when she does she says it makes her feel sick.
    I would suggest some kind of counselling to help you deal with what you're going through that's making you feel the way you feel so that your appetite will return.

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  • [Old Memory]
    13 years ago

    That is not entirely normal. Yes, some people do avoid eating when they are upset, just some people eat everything in sight, however, your situation seems like it is bordering the dangerous side.

    You should visit your doctor, and if they can't help you, then ask to be referred to a gastro-intestinal specialist. Or, you could even a psychologist to help you manage your stress levels.

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