(Apologies for the naivety or pickiness that may come off, that isn’t my intention but just a struggle to fully understand things.)
I met this lovely woman from Central Asia through a dating app when on a business trip about 2 months ago. Things picked up well and she may end up in my country eventually if things work out for her studies (we connected well after the plan was in motion).
Things are slow and we do like each other. But yesterday she revealed she cannot eat garlic or onions without having a lingering taste and odor for days, but also “spices” cause stomach irritations. No cramping, vomiting or diarrhoea. Her cuisine is more bland than usual. I think this is 2 months into us talking.
I’m from South Asia and despite that I dont cook curries or so daily (once a week or so), I still adore garlic, onions and my spices and love to cook. I understand it’s probably a FODMAP issue or a sensitive stomach, but I don’t know what to make of this. Of course I can find alternatives, but things get severely limited in all aspects. She also says she hasnt tried Indian food at all because it would be too spicy. I have a high tolerance to spicy food and enjoy it alot, on the contrary.
On the flipside, I cannot eat as much red meat as people in her country do. It is insane to see that consumption which can even be in breakfast. I can do a few meals in a week max but the diet changes I had since moving to Europe pushed me away from meat for the most part.
We’re still in the phase of non negotiables and would hold things from getting too serious until and if she actually comes here as the LDR would be too much for both of us.
I am quite confused and she did ask me if this was a non-negotiable. I do think its silly to say it is, but is quite a big range of things ruled out, or even considering visiting friends and family.
I still like her very much but Im kind of bummed that I cannot get to dive into food adventures with her, and it isnt even her fault but is a matter of circumstance.
What do I do here? I am super inexperienced with relationships and have been fine by myself so I have a bias in not preferring a change to a larger scale. And to be fair, there isnt necessarily a guarentee but is only likely that she comes by.
Thanks for reading! Will be happy to explain more if you have questions.
tl;dr Girl I like reveals possible allium and spice intolerance, hasnt really tried indian food either. Im unsure if its a non negotiable for me or not as I am a foodie and love to try out new food and recipes. Been single for way too long to know any better.