Experiencing a Sudden Dislike for Food
Age: 44, Female. I have been diagnosed with Complex PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. There are no recent health issues I can mention or significant stressors on my mind. Presently, I am on my menstrual cycle. I have had moments where I abruptly lose interest in specific foods only to eventually regain my taste for them after a hiatus. For instance, I enjoy eggs, yet occasionally they make me feel uneasy, leading me to avoid them for several months. Unlike individuals with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), I don't have any particular foods I can count on as "safe." There have been hints that I might be autistic, but given my age and gender, I feel there’s little value in seeking a formal diagnosis. Unfortunately, I lack a family doctor due to a shortage of physicians in my area. Today, I felt hunger pangs but couldn’t find any foods that seemed appealing. I reluctantly consumed a plain turkey sandwich comprising two slices of turkey, a bit of mayo, mustard, and plain white bread. It was quite challenging to swallow. Despite that, the hunger didn’t fade. It’s now about four hours after my sandwich, and I am overwhelmingly hungry. I understand I’m safe for now—I've eaten today, I'm not underweight, nor do I have diabetes—so skipping a meal isn’t a danger for me, yet the thought of any food makes me feel nauseous. My kitchen and pantry are fairly well stocked, but nothing seems tolerable, much less appealing. What could be the reason behind this? How is it possible to feel hungry yet have a strong aversion to food? Even the thought of chewing makes me uncomfortable. The idea of consuming a smoothie is utterly off-putting; just imagining it makes me feel queasy. What can I do about this? What’s causing this situation, and how might I resolve it?
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 9:10:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
Experiencing a sudden aversion to food, especially when coupled with feelings of hunger, can be confusing and frustrating. Given your background with Complex PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, these emotional and psychological factors may significantly influence your appetite and food preferences. Let’s explore this further and find some practical steps you can take.
Explanation
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Psychological Factors: Both anxiety and depression can lead to changes in appetite and food aversions. Stress and emotional states can dramatically impact your relationship with food, sometimes causing you to feel nausea at the very thought of eating.
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Physiological Responses: During your menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations can also affect appetite and food preferences. This might explain why certain foods you usually enjoy suddenly become unappealing.
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Food Texture and Sensation: Some individuals may experience discomfort with the texture of certain foods during heightened feelings of anxiety or depression, even if they historically enjoyed them.
Next Steps
1. Gentle Hydration: Since solid food feels unappealing at the moment, try to drink small amounts of clear fluids (like water or herbal teas) to stay hydrated. This can also help with any nausea you may be feeling.
2. Explore Non-Food Nourishment: Consider nourishment options that are liquid but less intensive than smoothies, such as broth-based soups, clear soups, or electrolyte drinks (like coconut water). The goal is to provide hydration and some nutrients without overwhelming you.
3. Create a Comfort Zone: Focus on preparing simple, bland foods that you usually tolerate well when you’re feeling better (such as plain rice, bananas, or toast). Avoid foods that are rich or complicated, as these could exacerbate feelings of nausea.
4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engage in mindfulness exercises, gentle yoga, or deep-breathing techniques to help calm anxiety around eating. Lowering stress can help improve your appetite.
5. Monitor and Journal: Keep a record of your feelings about food and any changes you experience. This can help identify patterns or triggers, allowing you to address them more thoughtfully.
If your aversion to food persists or worsens, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or therapist who can provide tailored guidance to your situation, especially as they can explore potential underlying emotional issues related to food and eating.
Remember, it’s okay to take small steps and prioritize your comfort. Listen to your body, and be patient with yourself during this time.
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