Going through a breakup is hard, but food always seems to make everything better. The thing about breakups is that you have different emotions through all the stages, and you need different foods to soothe each emotion. Here’s how to get through your own breakup, or help your friend get off the couch through calories.

Stage One: Looking for Answers

breakup

Gif courtesy of goodreads.com

Whenever you have a breakup, the first stage is assessing the relationship to see where it went wrong. For this stage, stick to the basics; head to the store and grab a pint of your favorite Ben and Jerry’s. Even though it says three servings, we all know it’s really one.

breakup

Photo by Becky Hughes

Stage Two: Denial

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Gif courtesy of suggestkeyword.com

At this stage, the reality that your relationship is over hasn’t hit you yet. When your emotions are high, you’re more likely to crave comfort food. The best thing is to keep it simple and make some baked mac and cheese; you can even add sherry, because wine makes everything better.

breakup

Photo by Amanda Shulman

Stage Three: Bargaining

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Gif courtesy of giphy.com

If you still want to salvage the relationship, you might be trying to work it out with your ex. For this stage, try something salty and sweet. It might sound like a random combination, but you’re going through a confusing time, and potato chips and milk chocolate could not be a better combination.

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Photo by Kelly Redfield

Stage Four: Relapse

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Gif courtesy of typeafemale.com

You and your ex decided to work things out and give it a second chance. During this stage, it is your new beginning. You’re going to decide to eat a little healthier than in the previous stages, because you’re finally back on track. You should go with an apple citrus quinoa salad.

breakup

Photo by Kendra Valkema

Stage Five: Anger

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Gif courtesy of giphy.com

Even though you both tried your best to make the relationship work, it just wasn’t meant to be. You should avoid crunchy foods and meat because they will escalate your anger. Stick to foods and drinks that help you relax. Make some green tea or a bowl of spinach soup. Spinach is rich in serotonin, which is a feel good neurotransmitter, which will help you chill.

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Photo by Jessica Payne

Stage Six: Acceptance

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Gif courtesy of giphy.com

Now you’re at the stage where the saddest part of your breakup is over and you’re ready to be alone. For this stage, start your days off right with a fresh green smoothie. Green vegetables have more nutrients than other fruits, and these smoothies are easy to make.

breakup

Photo by Christin Urso

Stage Seven: Redirected Hope

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Gif courtesy of reactiongifs.me

At this point, you are done with your seven stages of grieving, that past relationship is far in the back of your mind, and you are ready to move on to the future. Make yourself a salmon or rainbow trout to celebrate your new single life the right way. Wild fish are high in Omega-3, which are essential to a good healthy meal.

breakup

Photo by Grégoire Durand