Re: cit and eating
I've definitely encountered some digestive / diet oddities while on citalopram. My strategy has been to pick up some high-protein snacks and have them around, ready to go. I am now good friends with protein bars, fruit smoothies, beef jerky, peanut butter, and trailmix And some whey powder added to this and that, which isn't as hideous as it sounds.
I have lost three pants sizes in the past two months. Part of it was my gym visits; once I discovered that the gym helps with anxiety, I became a regular! But I also think the initial citalopram side effects probably accounted for much of my weight loss. I have mostly welcomed it because I definitely needed to shed some flab, but watch out: there are reports of citalopram actually inducing anorexia. Because I really enjoy worrying about things (!), I put some thought into that. I worried if I might subconsciously be doing things to avoid eating so that I will get comments from people about how thin I look, or something? I have to admit enjoying the comments... but on the other hand, I really was flabby around the midsection! So it's all good.
Well anyway... I recently concluded that while I am glad about losing the flab, but that's only half of my fitness goal and I want to acquire some lean muscle mass. So I am working in the gym and also on my diet, and trying to think of ways to eat better and develop a better self-image about my physique. I've never really been really proud about my physique, why not see if I can do that now? So that is where I am now- body image has become part of my comprehensive wellness plan.
So, long story short, yes, citalopram can lead to all kinds of dietary issues. Consider the 'BRAT' diet if you are having a lot of short-term belly side effects, but I would also adopt a strategy of finding the right healthy snacks to ensure that you get the nutrition that you need, even when you don't feel like eating full meals. Do not let diet go to heck because you don't feel like full meals!
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