I have been losing my appetite a lot when I am anxious. I buy the normal checklists of foods for my family that are pretty constant, but I have drank some of the meal replacement shakes to get me through a day when I am not hungry. Nutrition 310 online was a lot healthier than the ones I saw at the grocery store (they have a lot of sugar), but the special k shakes were not bad. These give you some protein and vitamins and calories so that you are not weak. They have gotten me through some anxious days. Kids still eat the same because I always keep healthy foods for them: fresh fruits, veggies, snacks. etc.

Hi sarajane123,

I struggle with the same problem. I've found that eating smaller meals several times a day is easier to handle. I typically try to eat 5-6 mini-meals throughout the day.

Here are some ideas for healthy mini-meals that are easy to prepare:

- An apple with a piece of cheese and light popcorn
- Egg, slice of whole-wheat toast, and half a grapefruit
- Grilled chicken sandwich with veggies
- Whole-grain roll with peanut butter and banana
- Hummus, whole-grain crackers, and baby carrots
-Smoothie made with yogurt, fruit, and juice

Well wishes,
Amethyst

Can your teenagers help you make a list? And if you can't go to the store, can they? At the very least, this would be a great learning experience for them - thinking about what things to get to make meals, while staying within certain budget parameters, and putting the list and everything together. How does that sound?

I agree with the other replies... Supplemental nutritional drinks have helped me in the past. I also try to drink lemon and ginger tea b/c for me hot tea calms me, but the lemon and ginger calms my stomach. Saltines, toast and things that are easy to nibble on have helped me. Mini meals as suggested are really helpful too. I have been getting the flavored almonds as well because I can eat a few, they have calories and fiber. Bananas in small doses... I learned its okay to feel this way, and if you only take a bite thats okay too. Hang in there!

Going to the grocery store to find things to eat is always a stressful time for my husband and I, so I understand the difficulty that you are having with it. It isn't easy picking out things when you have no desire to eat and or have no idea what you want. My suggestion to you would be to think back on all the things that you used to enjoy eating. I always find that I like to eat stuff that brings back wonderful memories with my friends and family. If you can associate food with something wonderful, than I am sure your body may be more receptive towards eating. My other suggestion would be to ask if their is anyone that you know, such as a friend or family member, who would be willing to help you with the groceries? They work with you and maybe even go shopping for you, if being at the grocery store is still too much right now.

Keep us posted on how things are going! I will be praying for you! Remember food is your friend!

I like the idea of allowing your teens to make the shopping list. Heck, if they are old enough let them shop too : ) less stress for you.