July 15, 2023
“Comfort food—food that reassures—is different things to different people.”
– David Tanis
Grief will affect you in many ways, some obvious and others not-so-obvious. It is the not-so-obvious effects that you have to be concerned with. For example, when we grieve, we may lose our appetite. We may stop eating and be less concerned about our health. Since the stress associated with grief can have a debilitating effect, we have to remember to eat, and to eat well.
There are those who may be prone to eat more than they previously did. They call it “comfort food” for a reason. Your eating habits will likely change, so be cautious and be observant. In addition to changes in your eating habits, you may develop gastrointestinal problems. Acid reflux is common for those under stress, so be sure to drink enough fluids, particularly water. You may find that you develop dry mouth and have difficulty swallowing. These reactions are normal.
If you discover that your appetite has disappeared, there are other options that you should consider, such as drinking smoothies. You may also resort to soups and stews and dishes that are easy to digest. Be sure to remember the importance of proper nutrition and hydration when you are dealing with stress.
Dr. Michael Hirsch, a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital and medical editor of Harvard Medical School’s Report “Coping with Grief and Loss: A Guide to Healing,” says: “A well-balanced diet is essential as you withstand the stress of grieving. That means eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, and drinking plenty of water and other healthy liquids. If your appetite is diminished, try eating small portions more frequently. In addition, a daily multivitamin can cover any missing nutrients.”
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Support your body, as well as your spirit, when traveling this healing journey.
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