Grieving Process and Decreased Appetite: Understanding the Cause and Dealing With It

Grief-Induced Loss of Appetite: Understanding the Reasons and Coping Strategies

Grief, a powerful and complex emotion, can have far-reaching effects on our bodies. One such impact is on the digestive system, where grief can influence appetite and lead to a loss of weight.

According to surveys conducted in 2013, approximately 30% of adults in the United States reported skipping a meal due to stress, with the majority citing a lack of appetite as the cause. This decreased will to eat is often associated with acute stress, such as grief.

During periods of acute stress, the body may decrease blood flow to the digestive system, further exacerbating appetite loss. This can lead to a host of physical effects, including stomach upset, chest pain or discomfort, dizziness, shortness of breath, sleep disturbance, fatigue, body aches, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and even depression.

To combat these effects, pre-packaged snacks, frozen meal options, and grocery store dishes can provide a convenient source of nutrition during this challenging time. However, it's important to focus on small, appealing meals that are nutrient-dense to help manage a loss of appetite.

The link between stress and appetite is likely due to stress-induced changes in the production of hormones responsible for appetite regulation. Psychological stress during grief processing can further affect appetite regulation, especially when grief leads to anxiety, depressive symptoms, or psychosomatic complaints. Emotional distress can disrupt normal eating behaviors and motivation.

In some cases, grief-related appetite loss and subsequent weight loss could result in challenges such as malnutrition, muscle loss, micronutrient deficiencies, loss of balance, increased risk for ground level falls, fractures, difficulty swallowing, and depression. If you haven't eaten in days and are experiencing negative effects, it's important to consider discussing an appetite stimulant with your doctor or registered dietitian.

Somatization, a physical expression of psychological distress in the absence of physical causes, may also be a reason for not feeling like eating after a significant loss. It's crucial to remember that grief appetite loss is a natural response to grief-related psychological stress.

Prolonged grief disorder, a mental health condition that can impair everyday function, may occur when grief continues for an extended period or doesn't seem to be improving. Setting a food alarm every 3-4 hours can help remind you to eat, and these reminders can be used as opportunities to include calorie-dense options like avocados.

Tamayo suggests choosing nutrient-dense options over milk, soda, candy, and opting for smoothies with protein, sparkling water, protein bars, and nuts instead. Coping with grief and asking for help is valid and may help you process your feelings. It's important to remember that taking care of your physical health during this time is just as important as taking care of your emotional health.