Food is vital for the nourishment of one’s body. What you put inside your body becomes your sustenance. The nutrients you get dictates the energy you have for the day. Also, the accumulated nutrients you have in your body contribute to your general wellness.
It is alarming, then, when you do not have the urge to eat. Sometimes, even the most delicious foods could not stimulate your appetite. You should be wary of such instances, especially if it persists for days. Getting to the root of your loss of appetite would help you regain your interest in food. In doing so, you can be sure of a healthier state of being. Here are some common reasons why you could lose your appetite. There are also some practical strategies to help you bounce back.
Dental Issues
When cavities accumulate, this could result in some pain or infection in the gums. This throbbing pain could interfere with eating as it may be hard to chew. As such, a loss of appetite may occur. That is why it is very important to practice good dental hygiene. Visiting a dental clinic twice every year should be imperative. You should schedule special visits too when there are immediate dental concerns.
Excellent oral health also helps to maintain good cardiac activities. Well-maintained teeth also give you confidence. Thus, you must find dental experts that encourage you to take care of your teeth and gums.
Common Colds and Flu
Your body has a default way to respond whenever it is sick. For example, when you have the common colds and flu, you would find yourself weak. You might also feel the need to sleep above all else. This is because your immune system releases a chemical called the cytokine. The said substance signals your body to rest so that it can fight the disease that you have. The downside of this process is you would not have the desire to eat so much.
Loss of appetite is common when you are sick. You do not have to force yourself to eat so much. But, you have to make sure that you are well hydrated. Preparing some hot soup can help fill you up and give you some energy. You may also try small frequent meals instead of big ones.
Stress, Anxiety, and Depression
Your psychological state can also affect your appetite. When you experience high levels of stress, you are in a fight-or-flight mode. Your muscles are tight and your stomach may feel queasy. As such, you may not have the desire to eat and enjoy meals. It is very important to manage your stress so that your basic needs would not get affected as well.
Anxiety or excessive worry can leave a person feeling nauseous. Also, a worrier’s stomach may react from harboring negative thoughts. It may become upset, or may lead to constipation or diarrhea. If you feel worried, your appetite may experience taking a dip.
Depression refers to a prolonged feeling of sadness and hopelessness. When a person is depressed, nothing seems to be interesting for them. This disinterest may extend to eating and preparing meals.
Both anxiety and depression have different treatment plans. You may try counseling and therapy, medications, or lifestyle changes. Addressing mental health issues would help you have excellent general well-being. This includes a good appetite.
Underlying Medical Conditions
If a loss of appetite comes with other signs and symptoms, it is best to consult with a doctor. Here are some medical conditions that can make one lose interest in eating.
1. Diabetes
High sugar levels sometimes cause food to move slowly in your gastrointestinal tract. If this happens, you may not feel as hungry as you should. Bloating may also occur which leaves you feeling full. Thus, disinterest in eating may develop. That is why it is very important to make sure that your sugar level is well-maintained.
2. Hypothyroidism
Your thyroid produces hormones that control your metabolism. An underproduction of this hormone slows down your body’s function. You burn lesser calories. Thus, you do not feel the urge to fuel your body with more food. Though this is the case, there may be a noticeable weight gain. Consulting with an endocrinologist can help you get the right thyroid levels.
3. Anemia
Iron deficiency affects the production of healthy red blood cells. With a change in the supply of oxygen and altered energy production, loss of appetite may follow. There are many other adverse symptoms of anemia that can affect one’s general well-being. Thus, it is important to talk to a doctor to create a healthy diet. Adding supplements can also help you have the right amount of iron in your body.
Prolonged loss of appetite is an indicator of many other conditions. Loss of interest in foods can also lead to many more health problems. It is very important to maintain a healthy level of appetite. Food is not only for nourishment but for pleasure too.