A healthy diet is essential to living a healthy life. Food supplies us with energy for the day. Eating right can help boost our immune system and our mental health too.
Dealing with a lost appetite can be confusing and draining. Is the question “why have I lost my appetite” lingering in your mind?
We’ve got the answers you seek. Read on to discover why you may have lost your appetite:
1. Stress
When you’re stressed, your body releases a hormone called epinephrine. You may also know this as adrenaline. This hormone can diminish your appetite for a short time.
High amounts of stress can lead to a decrease in hunger or appetite due to your body’s flight or fight response. Stress may also cause other symptoms like indigestion and nausea. Your appetite may return once you feel more relaxed.
2. Some Health Conditions
Some health conditions may cause you to lose your appetite. Other conditions can slow your body’s metabolism. Here are some conditions that can cause a lack of appetite.
- liver disease
- heart failure
- kidney disease
- some cancers
You may also suffer from a lack of appetite if you suffer from chronic pain. Conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis can impact your mental and physical health. Hormonal changes and pain during menstruation may also lead to a loss of appetite.
3. Depression
“Why have I lost my appetite,” you ask? How has your mental health been lately? People who suffer from depression tend to overeat, but it can also lead to a loss of appetite.
A change in eating habits may link to other symptoms of depression like fatigue. If you suddenly lost interest in things you enjoyed, consider seeing a professional. Other signs of depression include changes in sleep patterns and digestive symptoms like nausea.
4. Illness
Some illnesses like the flu, common cold, and a stomach virus can cause a sudden loss of appetite. Respiratory illnesses can block or limit your sense of smell and taste. This can make your food seem unappetizing.
Dealing with a loss of appetite is common when you’re experiencing a cold. In addition to appetite loss, you may also lose some weight. Some bacterial infections like strep and pneumonia can also cause a loss of appetite.
When you experience fever or fatigue, your white blood cells may produce chemicals called cytokines. This chemical can contribute to a sudden loss of appetite. This chemical circulates in the brain to help fight infection.
5. Medication
A loss of appetite may be a side effect for some medications. Other side effects like nausea or fatigue may accompany your appetite loss. Some medications that cause a loss of appetite include:
- antibiotics
- antihypertensives
- diuretics, and
- sedatives
Some cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can cause a loss of appetite. Try helping your appetite by eating small meals and setting reminders to eat. Consider seeing a doctor if you start feeling other painful symptoms.
Why Have I Lost My Appetite? Now You Know
Why have I lost my appetite? It’s a legitimate question that could indicate serious repercussions. Fortunately, here are some common reasons why you may be experiencing a sudden loss of appetite and what you should do about it.
But why stop here? We’ve got a plethora of health and fitness guides for you to check out! Don’t miss out on some amazing content right here!
