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AIBU?

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Original poster

Brother and I can’t eat in public

133 replies

Voi · 10/06/2024 13:58

Slightly exaggerated title but not a million miles off.

So brother and I have similar issues. We both cannot eat in the work canteen or partake in colleagues’ bakes. We have the same rationale. Why would I eat a big lunch (Shepherds pie) or sweet treat if I am not in a relaxed environment? Ie the food is not as yummy as it could be if it were eaten at home. As a result neither of us tend to eat lunch or breakfast during the work week. We do not work or live together but realised we have the same issue.

We both could never eat a McDonalds for example in the restaurant, would have to bring home to enjoy. But we can go out to a ‘proper’ sit down restaurant and enjoy a meal. So not that bad.

Just curious if you have come across this issue before?

OP posts:
sorrynotathome · 10/06/2024 14:04

froidIci · 10/06/2024 14:03

Didn't want to read and not post. The only other person I know who had a big rule about never eating in front of others - was my aunt with undiagnosed anorexia who eventually unfortunately passed away from a condition related to it. Hers was severe - it was not just in public/certain places/certain foods - she could not be "seen eating" in front of anyone. This was in my country of origin where MH was/is v much tabboo and even I did not apply the anorexia label to her until much after I had moved to the West.

MH? I presume you mean mental illness?

Allfur · 10/06/2024 14:03

Never heard of such behaviour, sounds a bit exhausting

froidIci · 10/06/2024 14:03

Didn't want to read and not post. The only other person I know who had a big rule about never eating in front of others - was my aunt with undiagnosed anorexia who eventually unfortunately passed away from a condition related to it. Hers was severe - it was not just in public/certain places/certain foods - she could not be "seen eating" in front of anyone. This was in my country of origin where MH was/is v much tabboo and even I did not apply the anorexia label to her until much after I had moved to the West.

sorrynotathome · 10/06/2024 14:03

Not every meal has to be “yummy”. This is why so many people are obese. You have issues, so I would suggest targeted therapy.

AlisonDonut · 10/06/2024 14:01

Were you shamed about your eating habits or just eating in public during your childhood?

yeesh · 10/06/2024 14:01

Odd

CleanShirt · 10/06/2024 14:00

Ignore, didn't read OP properly.

DontShow · 10/06/2024 14:00

I have that issue with yummy foods - eg a big chocolate pudding. I would only enjoy it alone.

But food as fuel..... well I have to eat as I get low blood sugar and feel ill, so just basic things I have to