Loss of Appetite: Causes, Treatment, and Lifestyle Changes

Anyone can experience a loss of appetite for many reasons. People may have much less desire to eat, lose interest in food, or experience nausea. Along with the loss of appetite, a person can also experience fatigue and weight loss if they are not eating enough food to support their body.

Healthcare professionals should evaluate any persistent lack of appetite. An extensive range of factors can induce a decline in your appetite. These vary between mental and physical illnesses.

If you have a loss of appetite, you may also have related symptoms, such as weight loss or malnutrition. If left unchecked, these can be serious, so it's important to find the cause and treat your reduced appetite.

What are the symptoms of Loss of Appetite?

Symptoms of loss of appetite can include:

• Less Interest in Eating: Feeling unmotivated to eat or skipping meals without feeling hungry.
• Reduced Hunger Signals: Not feeling hungry, even after not eating for several hours.
• Feeling Full Quickly: Eating small amounts and feeling full right away.
• Unintended Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
• Fatigue or Weakness: Low energy levels due to insufficient calories.
• Nausea or Upset Stomach: Sometimes, loss of appetite is accompanied by nausea or digestive discomfort.

If these symptoms persist or worsen, it's a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider to find the cause.

Conditions and Causes of Loss of Appetite

• Infections: Flu, pneumonia, or gastrointestinal infections.
• Chronic Diseases: Cancer, kidney failure, liver disease, COPD.
• Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, stress, and grief.
• Digestive Disorders: IBS, Crohn's disease, gastritis.
• Medications: Antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and painkillers.
• Hormonal Changes: Thyroid disorders, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Pain: Chronic pain conditions can reduce hunger.
• Substance Use: Alcohol, smoking, or drug use.
• Aging: Changes in taste and smell with age.
• Neurological Conditions: Dementia, Parkinson's disease.

Common Causes of Loss of Appetite

Bacteria and Viruses

Appetite loss can arise anywhere because of bacterial, viral, fungal, or other infections. Here are just a few of the reasons why it could work:

• An upper respiratory infection
• Pneumonia
• Gastroenteritis
• Colitis
• A skin infection
• Meningitis

After proper treatment for the disease, your appetite will return.

Psychological causes

Several psychological factors can contribute to a decreased appetite:

• Older Adults: Many older adults experience a loss of appetite, though the exact reasons remain unclear.
• Emotional States: Appetite may decrease when you are sad, depressed, upset, or anxious.
• Boredom and Stress: Both boredom and stress have been linked to a reduced appetite.
• Eating Disorders: Conditions like anorexia nervosa can significantly lower appetite. Individuals with anorexia nervosa may engage in starvation or other weight-loss methods, often becoming underweight and fearful of gaining weight. This condition can also lead to malnutrition.

When to Visit a Doctor?

A continued loss of appetite can lead to weight loss and malnutrition. It is vital that people find out the reason for the loss of appetite, as not treating it can be serious. People can talk to a doctor if they have a loss of appetite for a long time. If they notice unexpected or rapid weight loss, they should also see their doctor.

A person should seek medical help if they notice any other symptoms along with loss of appetite, such as:

• Stomach pain
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Fast or irregular heartbeat

How is Loss of Appetite Diagnosed?

Although there is no laboratory test to detect eating disorders, your doctor may use a variety of physical and psychological evaluations, as well as laboratory tests to determine your diagnosis, including:

• A physical exam during which your provider will check your height, weight, and vital signs.
• Laboratory tests, including a complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, thyroid function tests, urinalysis, X-rays, and an EKG.
• Psychological assessment, which includes personal questions about your eating behaviors, bingeing, purging, exercise habits, and body image.

Treatment and management for Loss of Appetite

• A doctor may prescribe certain medications to help increase your appetite and reduce other symptoms, such as nausea. If depression or anxiety causes people to experience a loss of appetite, talking therapies and sometimes antidepressants can help.
• If a doctor believes that a specific medication is causing the loss of appetite, they may be able to adjust the dose of the medication.

How Can I Prevent Loss of Appetite?

To prevent losing your appetite, try these simple tips:

• Eat Small, Often: Have smaller meals more frequently to keep your energy up.
• Pick Tasty, Nutritious Foods: Choose flavorful, nutrient-packed foods like nuts, avocados, and smoothies.
• Add Flavor: Use spices and herbs to make food more appealing.
• Stick to a Schedule: Eat meals at the same time each day to get into a routine.
• Stay Active: Light exercise, like walking, can make you feel hungrier.
• Drink Water: Stay hydrated, as dehydration can reduce appetite.
• Eat with Others: Sharing meals with friends or family can make eating more enjoyable.

Home Remedies of Loss of Appetite

• People may find it easier to eat several small meals a day rather than three larger ones.
• Try to make these meals high in calories and protein to make sure the body receives enough nutrients and energy. People may also find liquid foods, such as shakes and protein drinks, easier to drink.
• Adding herbs, spices, or other seasonings to foods can also encourage people to eat more easily. Eating in a relaxed or social setting can make eating more enjoyable.
• People can also continue to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Gentle exercise, such as a short walk, can also sometimes increase your appetite.