d3sign / Moment / Getty Images
Food gives your body the energy it needs to stay healthy.
In many cases, not feeling hungry is a temporary problem often brought on by an acute illness.
However, persistent loss of appetite can be a serious symptom of a medical or mental health condition.
d3sign / Moment / Getty Images
Medical Conditions That Cause Loss of Appetite
The loss of appetite isnt usually a primary condition.
Instead, its a symptom of another issue.
Sometimes, the cause is fleeting, such as in the case of a stomach bug.
But at other times, it can be longer-lasting and may require treatment.
Its normal to experience minor fluctuations in appetite over time.
How To Treat Loss of Appetite
The treatment for the loss of appetite depends on the cause.
These tests can help identify the root cause of your loss of appetite.
A dietitian can also advise you on nutritional supplements that may help you get all the nutrients you need.
However, failing to treat a longer-term loss of appetite can have several serious health consequences.
Final Thoughts
The prognosis for loss of appetite depends heavily on the cause.
For some, its a mild issue that resolves on its own.
For others, it can become a serious, life-threatening problem that requires intensive medical intervention.
Talk to your physician about any changes in appetite, and learn how to best address the issue.
2020;15(6):e0234209.
2019;11(10).
doi:10.3390/nu11102285
Liu N, Abell T.Gastroparesis updates on pathogenesis and management.Gut Liver.
2017;12(10):e0186514.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0186514
Maurya R, Bhattacharya P, Dey R, Nakhasi HL.Leptin functions in infectious diseases.Front Immunol.
2018;10(7):e3032.
doi:10.7759/cureus.3032
National Library of Medicine.Bland diet.
2023;22(159):2023. doi:10.1186/s12904-023-01287-1