Experiencing Loss of Appetite: Seeking Answers
For the past three to four months, I have been facing a peculiar situation: I've lost my appetite completely. It’s not just that I’m eating less; I find myself only managing a few bites of food each day. To give you a bit of context about myself: I’m 26 years old and identify as a cisgender female. While I carry a little extra weight, I'm not aware of my exact measurements as I don’t typically keep up with the scale. It appears that my physique hasn't changed much, so I don’t suspect significant weight loss during this period. Generally healthy, I’ve never encountered severe medical issues and have no previous bone injuries. However, I do deal with some mental health challenges. I’ve been under treatment for anxiety and depression since childhood and initiated therapy for PTSD a couple of years ago. My primary medication is Prozac, with no other prescriptions involved. Previously, I had a problematic relationship with alcohol, but I've been abstaining from drinking since this appetite issue emerged. Recently, I attempted to drink a beer again and ended up feeling nauseated; it was quite shocking. Additionally, this situation is definitely not due to pregnancy, as it has been a long time since my last cycle. Interestingly, I have never struggled with eating disorders or negative body image. While I can be critical of my appearance, like many others, this dissatisfaction has never crossed into unhealthy territory. I do have some relatives who have faced such challenges. My current dilemma leaves me questioning whether it stems from physical or psychological roots, yet I’m not purposefully avoiding meals; I truly miss my former enjoyment of food! Although I lead a sedentary lifestyle due to my desk job and don’t exercise much, this radical change in my eating habits feels alarming. It’s perplexing to me that I haven’t begun to faint or face severe health consequences, especially given the duration of this condition. I strive to consume at least one full meal daily, but after only a few mouthfuls—regardless of the food type—I lose the ability to continue. My body signals hunger, yet the mere presence of food makes me want to reject it. Importantly, I have never considered myself a picky eater and have no known food allergies. Incredibly, despite any hunger pangs, the idea of eating leads to nausea—a confusing experience for me. It feels as though I’ve reached a point of burnout regarding food, even though I know sustenance is essential for survival. This situation concerns me greatly, particularly because I've begun associating my lack of appetite with some positive aspects, particularly financial savings on food. Given my anxiety around money, this has created a troubling inclination to maintain the status quo. I am aware that this mindset is unhealthy, and I fear that I might be rationalizing my behavior. When I did mention these feelings to my therapist, they seemed somewhat dismissive, which has left me apprehensive that a doctor's evaluation could merely label me as anorexic without understanding my situation. I’m not intentionally starving myself. I appreciate any advice or insights you can offer regarding this troubling experience!
Answers (1)
4/1/2025, 8:10:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a significant change in your appetite that is causing you distress. Loss of appetite for an extended period can be linked to various physical and psychological factors, especially considering your history of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Let's explore this further and identify some steps you can take to address your concerns.
Explanation:
Loss of appetite can arise from several causes, including:
- Psychological Factors: Your current mental health challenges might be influencing your relationship with food. Anxiety and depression can significantly impact daily activities, including eating. Nausea at the thought of eating could also be a manifestation of these conditions.
- Physical Factors: While you've not noticed significant weight changes, prolonged loss of appetite can sometimes lead to deficiencies in nutrients or discomfort during eating, as you've mentioned.
- Medication Effects: Prozac (fluoxetine), while helpful for many, can sometimes impact appetite. If you've started this medication or changed dosages recently, it might contribute to your symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Reflect on Recent Changes: Consider any recent changes to your medication, stressors in your life, or other health factors that might contribute to your appetite change.
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Keep a Food and Mood Journal: Track what you eat and how you feel before and after meals. This might help identify patterns or triggers that exacerbate your loss of appetite.
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Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on easy-to-eat, nutritious options. If large meals are overwhelming, try smaller, more frequent snacks throughout the day. Foods like smoothies, yogurt, or soft fruits might be easier to manage.
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Mindful Eating: Try to create a calming atmosphere during meals. Engage in activities that promote relaxation before eating, like deep breathing or light stretching.
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Discuss with Your Therapist: Since you’ve mentioned feeling dismissed, consider rephrasing your concerns to ensure they understand how your appetite change affects you. A more collaborative approach can help you both explore this issue more thoroughly.
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Consider Re-evaluating with a Medical Professional: While I understand your concern about being labeled incorrectly, a doctor can provide a comprehensive evaluation, including check-ups for any physiological causes. Be honest about your feelings and experiences during the consultation.
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Seek Support Groups or Resources: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can help you feel less isolated and provide insights into managing your appetite issues.
Remember, navigating changes in appetite, especially with mental health considerations, can be complex. You're not alone in this, and taking small steps can lead to improvements in your eating habits and overall well-being. If you need further guidance or support, don't hesitate to reach out.
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