Reasons for a Loss of Appetite

It's important to find out the underlying cause of a loss of appetite, since people who have a loss of appetite typically have something else wrong with them. Improper nutrition and dehydration can result from not eating enough calories or not drinking enough fluids and result in further illness. It's also important to understand loss of appetite when undergoing medical treatment or certain dietary restrictions. There are also some very normal and natural causes that you should be aware of.

Cancer

• Cancer is a troubling disease on many levels. The cures for various cancers require taking medications or even undergoing chemotherapy. Both of these types of treatments can cause a loss of appetite in many cancer patients. If you have cancer and experience loss of appetite, let your doctor know. An appetite stimulant, diet change or anti-nausea medication could help with the problem.

Aging Process

• Part of the aging process is a decreased sense of smell and taste. Often, your favorite foods are no longer appetizing. Eating isn't as enjoyable as it was in your younger years. Don't skip meals or healthy snacks because of aging. You need your nutrients. Try to fix new dishes that you've never eaten before to increase your appetite and make eating more enjoyable. Add additional spices to foods to be able to taste them more.

Diet Restrictions

• Diet restrictions are not uncommon for certain illnesses, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. The key to controlling a loss of appetite with diet restrictions is to learn to cook and order food that is within the diet change. Often, by the time you figure out what you can eat, you have already lost interest in your diet. As a result, there is a loss of appetite. Learning to prepare different dishes that fall within your restricted diet will make it easier to follow its requirements and give you enough variety for nutrition and pleasurable eating.

Medications

• Some medications have a side effect of appetite loss. Your pharmacist or doctor should notify you of this possibility when you begin a new medication. If you notice loss of appetite and start to lose weight after starting new prescriptions, let your health care provider know. The doctor can make recommendations or necessary changes to help you eat and maintain a healthy weight.

  Avoid taking numerous medications or supplements at one time. For example, spread out your supplements throughout the day. Taking several supplements and a couple of prescriptions at once can cause you to feel full.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

• Some forms of gastrointestinal disorders can cause nausea, fullness or even vomiting. Just the thought of eating food can bring on sick feelings. Eat smaller meals and snacks throughout the day. Concentrate on eating healthier foods and avoiding empty calories or too many treats. Make every bite of food count with nutritious food. Talk to your healthcare provider if you lose weight or become dehydrated. There are some medications that will help with the loss of appetite and with the other symptoms.