Infections

Viral illnesses like the common cold and flu, or bacterial infections such as pneumonia, can reduce appetite. Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and loss of smell make food unappealing, leading to a lack of desire to eat.

Gastrointestinal issues

Digestive disorders such as constipation or gastroesophageal reflux can diminish appetite. Acid reflux causes nausea, bloating, altered taste, and disrupts signals between the brain and gut. Additionally, abdominal pain from gastrointestinal diseases makes eating uncomfortable, discouraging food intake.

Pregnancy

During the first three months of pregnancy, many women experience nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite, commonly known as morning sickness. This condition results from hormonal changes and can persist throughout pregnancy for some individuals.

Addison's disease

Adrenal insufficiency, or Addison's disease, leads to the body producing insufficient aldosterone and cortisol hormones. Loss of appetite is often an early symptom, accompanied by nausea and abdominal pain.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland, meaning it does not produce enough thyroid hormone to maintain the body's balance. In later stages, it can cause loss of taste and smell, leading to a lack of appetite and hunger.

Thyroid issues can reduce appetite. Photo: Dinh Tien

Liver or kidney disease

Chronic diseases affecting the kidneys or liver, including kidney failure, hepatitis, and cirrhosis, are linked to reduced appetite, weight loss, and malnutrition. A damaged liver impairs detoxification and food metabolism, causing toxins to build up in the body. These substances impact the brain's appetite-regulating centers, diminishing interest in food. The more severe the disease, the greater the loss of appetite.

Depression

Short-term stress releases hormones like adrenaline, reducing appetite. This psychological issue also causes changes in brain regions that control hunger, leading to prolonged loss of appetite.

To regain appetite, one can keep a food diary to identify and avoid dishes that trigger nausea or bloating, prioritizing easily digestible meals that soothe the digestive system. Experimenting with different flavors and attractively presented dishes can stimulate taste buds. Eating with family or friends also makes meals more enjoyable. Instead of three large meals, one can divide food intake into six or seven small meals throughout the day to enhance appetite. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods over empty calories.

Anh Chi (Source: Very Health Well)