How to Deal With Loss of Appetite

Loss of appetite can occur for many reasons, such as when a person is sick or under stress. Although short-term appetite loss is unlikely to do much harm, not eating properly over a longer period can deplete the body of important vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

Fruit and Vegetable Juices

• Juicing or blending a mix of fruit and vegetables is a great option. Drinking blended beverages, as opposed to juices, ensures you still get all the insoluble fiber you need. Use whole broccoli or cabbage, and add spinach for its iron content. Carrots are best juiced. Adding spirulina supplement powder or protein powder and rice milk will give you essential amino acids. These are easy to drink and digest, even if you have little or no appetite.

Smaller Portions

• Eat small portions of nutritious food five or six times a day instead of eating three main meals. Go for light options such as fruits and salads if heavier options sound unappealing. Soups are also good if you don't feel like eating, as they are easily digested and you can help you get your daily vegetable requirements. Whole grain foods will fill you up faster, but have a higher nutrient level so you will not be eating "empty" calories. Avoid processed and sugary foods as these have few nutrients; when you don't feel like eating much, it is important to make every bite count by eating only the most nutrient-packed food.

Stimulants

• Good natural appetite stimulants include ginger root, centaury, gentian, scullcap and rooibos tea. Rooibos tea has been popular in southern Africa for centuries. It is also a powerful antioxidant and contains good levels of flavonoids. Wine is also an appetite stimulant, and aids digestion.