Changes in appetite are a very common part of grief, and regaining your desire to eat may take some time. Mealtime is a social time, and you’re no doubt missing your wife’s companionship in addition to her cooking. Eating alone is a difficult transition after you’ve been accustomed to sharing meals with a loved one.

Because of this change, preparing meals and eating will likely require extra effort for awhile, yet you’ll be in a better position to handle this time of loss and change if you’re well nourished. Avoid skipping meals, especially breakfast, and make a point of keeping some of your favorite foods on hand. You may eat better if you share a meal with another person, so consider asking a friend over for a meal or arrange a meal with several friends. Another benefit of sharing meals with others is that it gives you something to look forward to. In some cases, people find it easier to eat out for a period of time, particularly with friends or family members. Others prefer to prepare very simple meals at home as they adjust to cooking for themselves.

Here are some suggestions for cooking for one:
--Make menus for the week, including some of your favorite recipes.
--Keep it simple, especially if you’re not accustomed to cooking.
--Create a shopping list.
--Don’t be afraid to substitute items you already have or that are less expensive.
--Watch for bargains on meat, and take advantage of sales on healthy choices. Remember that 1 pound of high-fat or bony meat equals one serving cooked, while 1/4 pound of boneless or ground meat equals a single serving.
--Be sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet. You’ll be able to buy fresh produce in individual servings at most markets.
--If a recipe makes a large amount, divide it into single-serving portions and freeze them. These can be reheated quickly in the oven or microwave.

For more information on grief and loss, visit: http://www.extension.org/pages/Loss_and_Grief.