GF and Malnourishment

MamaDez724
MamaDez724 Posts: 1
edited November 8 in Social Groups
Good morning all!
I'm new to the group, not new to MFP (returning after a long hiatus). I have been gluten free for almost 2 years. I don't exhibit GI symptoms, my issues are arthritis/joint related.

I have lost 34 pounds since going gluten free in 2013, but I only needed to lose 13-18 pounds. Now I can't stop the weight from coming off and I don't like the anorexic look I'm starting to have.

I know part of my issue is that I am RARELY hungry, and on the rare occasion that I do feel hungry, I get nauseous as soon as I look at food, and I wind up not eating. There are days I only eat a single piece of fruit - all day.

I'm starting to exhibit what I assume are symptoms of malnourishment; dizzy spells, insomnia, lost 6 pounds in 3 weeks, mood swings, bowel issues, skin issues, etc.

What I really need is a solid group of supporters who will help me stay on track with eating regularly. I need some inspiration in the kitchen. I hate how complicated being GF can be, and I miss my italian foods. I have no desire to cook or prepare meals anymore. TBH, I think I'm depressed in this department.

Your support and encouragement would be greatly appreciated. Please feel free to friend me!

Replies

  • amina429
    amina429 Posts: 48 Member
    Have you tried rice pastas to make your Italian foods? I'm sorry I can't help much, I have no experience with getting nauseous around food.

    It does sound like you're depressed - have you talked with a therapist?
  • Lalla75
    Lalla75 Posts: 1 Member
    I understand this. I went through a few period where I did not want food or water. It gets tiring to think so much about what you can and cannot have. I told a few friends, and they ate with me a little more often to restart the habit. I also gave myself permission to start slowly and easily. I fall back to broth based soups, salmon, and brown rice toast. If raspberries and salmon make me happy, then I eat them as often as I like so that I look forward to eating again. I start with really easy to digest things, and mint or ginger tea to settle my stomach. For me the hardest part was letting myself tell people I was sad and overwhelmed about having to be so conscious of what I ate. I hope you find foods that bring you joy in a way that makes up for the ones you miss.
  • canadjineh
    canadjineh Posts: 5,396 Member
    Get thee to a therapist who is well versed in eating disorders - the GF component is really just a side note here as there are millions of things out there you CAN eat to keep your body healthy. If you're just beginning this it can seem overwhelming, but after a while it is second nature and not that difficult if you don't keep focusing on 'the good old days' (which were killing you slowly).
  • Ditto, on canadjineh's comment, but also try small amounts of brown rice pasta, GF sauces (or make your own). Rice pasta is amazing. Even those in my family who are not GF like the flavor & taste. I've found I don't eat as much of it, because it fills me up. Also, try more potatoes. I pray this helps. Blessings to you, friend.
  • P.S. Adding Omega oils to your meals may aid in supplementing 'good fat' into your diet. Benefits may include added calories disguised in delicious food. :D
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