Loss of appetite is a common disorder, mostly benign, but can sometimes be the result of more serious illness.

It is characterized by a non-existent hunger, a disappearance of the desire and the need to eat.

There are different reasons for the loss of appetite:

• In depression, loss of appetite can occur due to a lack of general pleasure.
• During a state of stress or anxiety, an adrenaline rush can take place and direct blood to the brain, heart and muscles by leaving the digestive system which can cause a lack of appetite.
• Permanent chewing such as chewing gum that stimulates satiety by sending bad messages to the brain can cause loss of appetite.
• Some cancers can cause loss of appetite with chemotherapy. In addition, in these cases, the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose are damaged and change the taste.
• In the case of digestive diseases (Crohn’s disease, intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, etc.), the digestive tract, which is not ready to receive food because it is damaged, instructs the brain to avoid the ingestion of food. ‘food.
• Certain unpleasant smells can reduce the urge to eat because taste and smell are linked. So when there is a bad smell, the hunger can be cut off.

Certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes or taking certain medications can also affect the urge to eat.

Weight loss can be noticed, as well as a weakening of the body, fatigue and deficiencies. The body is more vulnerable and is more likely to get infections.

In the long term, the body no longer receives enough nutrients necessary for its proper functioning and weakens, which can become dangerous for vital functions.

Here are some tips to apply if your loss of appetite is lasting: 

– Go for a walk or a little jog and enjoy the fresh air to whet your appetite.

– Do not hesitate to go out to eat at a restaurant or with friends.

– Drink plenty of water and various drinks except just before a meal.

– Eat small meals and high calorie snacks throughout the day (every 2-3 hours).

– If you don’t like to eat in the morning, have a light snack and eat later in the day.

– Eat your biggest meal when you have a good appetite.

– Plan your menus in advance with a planning of meal times (optionally opt for a warning device to remind you to eat).

– Take care of the presentation of your dishes and ensure that they are colorful!

– Add protein and additional calories to food:

• Add margarine to rice, noodles, vegetables and bread.
• Spread your slices of bread and croissants with honey, jams, jellies, non-trans fat margarine, peanut butter or cheese.
• Add tofu, squash seeds, pine nuts to soups, stews and casseroles.
• Sauté your food in oil.
• Season your salads and vegetables with vinaigrette.

– Drink healthy drinks that contain calories.

– Add sugar or honey to your coffee and tea.

– Treat yourself to a high calorie dessert if you don’t have diabetes.

You are suffering a change in the perception of taste ? Here are a few tips :

– Experiment with different food flavors (sour, salty, sweet, bitter) and keep a list of foods you like to taste.

– Rinse your mouth before eating with fresh lemon flavored water, or carbonated mineral water.

– Try to eat foods cold or at room temperature and compare.

– Marinate meats and fish to mask the bitter flavors.

– Add spices to food.

– Do not hesitate to consume acidic foods before a meal to help improve flavors (sorbet, lemon juice, soft drink).