Loss Of Appetite A decreased appetite occurs when you have a | Dr. Mike Varshavski

Loss Of Appetite

A decreased appetite occurs when you have a reduced desire to eat. It may also be known as a poor appetite or loss of appetite. The medical term for this is anorexia. A wide variety of conditions can cause your appetite to decrease. These range between mental and physical illnesses.

Is loss of appetite serious?

If your decreased appetite persists and you develop malnutrition or vitamin and electrolyte deficiencies, you can have life-threatening complications. Therefore, it's important to seek medical attention if you have a decreased appetite that doesn't resolve after an acute illness or that lasts longer than a few weeks.

What to eat when you don't feel like eating?

Eat foods high in calorie and protein content. Foods high in protein are peanut butter, eggs, nuts, cereal, chicken, steak, meat, etc. Foods high in calories are cheese, yogurt, ice cream, peanut butter, etc. Drink high-calorie beverages, such as milk, Ensure, smoothies, Boost and Carnation Instant Breakfast.

Why do I feel full after only a few bites of food?

When inflammation occurs, your stomach lining changes and loses some of its protective cells. It may also cause early satiety. This is where your stomach feels full after eating just a few bites of food. Because chronic gastritis occurs over a long period of time it gradually wears away at your stomach lining.

What causes you to lose your appetite?

Your appetite may also tend to decrease when you're sad, depressed, grieving, or anxious. Boredom and stress have also been linked to a decreased appetite. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, can also lead to a decreased appetite overall.

Overcoming poor appetite

-Get plenty of rest.

-Exercise lightly before meals to stimulate appetite.

-Select enjoyable foods and foods that have a pleasant aroma.

-Plan meals the day before eating them.

-Stay well hydrated.

-Aim for 6-8 small meals and snacks per day.

-Eat meals and snacks at scheduled times, even if not hungry.
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