Loss of appetite is usually a sign of a health problem. Women should consume about 2 thousand
calories in a day. However, requirements differ from person to person and you may need more
than this if your level of physical activity and muscle mass is high.
Nowadays, our food habits have become such that we all are tempted to eat more because
different types of tasty food are easily available. This is the reason why the biggest problem for
most people today is the excess intake of calories. In this condition, loss of appetite and struggle
to eat more can be a sign of problems in the body. Which health problems cause loss of appetite?
This is explained by Functional Nutritionist Mugdha Pradhan, CEO and Founder of iThrive.
The underlying reasons for loss of appetite are many and can be both physical and psychological.
However, to identify the problem, it is necessary to evaluate the health and know about the root
cause. But, the most common problems include-
Bowel problems
Intestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease
(IBD), can interfere with the digestive system and reduce appetite. This can lead to abdominal
pain, nausea and changes in bowel movements, all of which can lead to loss of appetite.
When the digestive system is not working properly and is under pressure, the body does not feel
like eating anything.
Thyroid and other hormonal problems
Thyroid and other hormonal imbalances can reduce appetite by disrupting the normal balance of
hormones in the body. Leptin, ghrelin, and cortisol are all hormones that play a role in
controlling appetite.
Leptin- This is a hormone made from fat cells, which helps in suppressing appetite.
Ghrelin- This is a hormone produced by the stomach, which stimulates appetite.
Cortisol – This is a stress hormone, which affects appetite by increasing the craving for
unhealthy foods.
When these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to changes in appetite.
Also, hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid gland is a common cause of loss of appetite.
Psychological problems
Psychological problems cause loss of appetite by altering the perception of hunger. Anorexia is a
mental disorder characterized by a person's loss of appetite due to an irrational obsession with
being thin. Clinical depression is also commonly associated with loss of appetite.
Slow metabolism
Slow metabolism reduces the body's energy, which reduces appetite. This is usually due to low
thyroid function and hormonal problems. It is also aggravated by ageing and a sedentary
lifestyle.
Loss of appetite is a serious problem and should not be ignored. If the problem persists, a doctor
should be consulted immediately. Also, with the right guidance and healthy lifestyle changes,
anyone can overcome their problems and lead a healthy life.
Image Credit: Freepik & Shutterstock
DISCLAIMER
Your skin and body are as different as you are. We endeavour to bring you correct, safe and
expert-verified information through our articles and social media handles, but still, you must
consult your doctor before trying any home remedy, hack or fitness tip.
