A doctor has revealed getting dumped "can cause physical pain" and the best way to heal heartbreak is avoiding pizza and cake. Dr Chun Tang, 47, says the recently single can suffer severe physical symptoms linked to heartbreak - such as headaches, loss of appetite leading to weight loss, and insomnia.
He suggested eating a good diet to try and mend a broken heart - and combat the ailments associated with it. Dr Tang recommends steering clear of processed food and refined carbohydrates to help get over the end of a relationship and opting for fresh fruit, vegetables and fish which can "boost mood".
He also advises the newly singletons not to "bottle it in" but to share how they feel with friends, family and even employers. It is believed many couples call it quits in the period between New Year and Valentine's Day - leading to a surge of heartbroken individuals.
Dr Tang, a GP and medical director at Pall Mall Medical, from Lytham, Lancashire, said: “Heartbreak can manifest in many ways. A good diet and the right vitamins can also help a broken heart.
“Eating fresh fruit, vegetables and fish can help with mood. Avoid processed foods and refined carbohydrates – they’ll just make you feel sluggish and tired."
Refined carbohydrates include white bread, pizza dough, pasta, pastries, white flour, white rice, sweet desserts, and many breakfast cereals. He also suggests avoiding fatty, fried foods that are high in trans fats - such as burgers, fries and Chinese takeaways.
According to the doctor, heartbreak can manifest itself in a "whole wave of symptoms". Those suffering may experience low mood, lethargy, headaches, muscle and joint aches and a loss of appetite leading to drastic weight loss.
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A balanced diet can be the remedy to cure a broken heart, according to the expert. He also says the broken-hearted should increase their intake of vitamin D - 'the sunshine supplement' - and vitamin B, but advises to check with your GP before taking either.
"Vitamin D helps regulate calcium and phosphate in the body – keeping bones, teeth and muscles healthy," Dr Tang said. "B vits can increase energy, reduce stress and turbocharge mood."
Dr Tang added: “Take time for yourself and speak to your close friends and family about your situation. It’s important to discuss these feelings - preferably with a healthcare expert.
"Sometimes medication can get people through tougher times and help them see the light again. Don’t bottle things up as this will only lead to further stress and prolong your symptoms. If you are really struggling, speak to your employer about making some reasonable adjustments to your work to ensure that you aren’t under too much pressure.”
Dr Tang's no-nos after heartbreak:
- Bottling things up
- Over indulging in refined carbohydrates and fried fatty foods
- Eating processed foods
Dr Tang's dos after heartbreak:
- Eat foods that are high in Omega 3 and Omega 6
- Get enough fruit and vegetables and fresh produce
- Eat regularly or your blood sugars can drop leading you to be tired irritable
- Increase your Vitamin B and D intake
