8 Natural Remedies For Loss Of Appetite

Loss of appetite describes when the desire to eat is reduced. Sometimes it is called ‘absent hunger’. It is very different to the eating disorder anorexia nervosa as this is an intentional restriction on how much you eat, whereas a loss of appetite is generally unintentional.

Your appetite is regulated by a series of communications between the central nervous system, digestive system, endocrine system, and sensory nerves. Having a regular appetite helps to ensure your body gets all the food it needs to function correctly and maintain a healthy weight.

Most short-term cases of appetite loss are caused by a reaction to being sick, overfed, stressed, or simply being too busy. Whilst a short-term loss of appetite is usually nothing to worry about if it lasts for more than a few days you may start to notice negative side effects such as weight loss, irritability, or problems with your sleep. Thankfully, there are a number of home remedies you can try to regulate your appetite.

# Change the Way You Eat

The way you structure your eating patterns can have a huge impact on your appetite. If you find you’re struggling to get through large meals, try eating more regular but smaller meals instead. You don’t have to stick with the idea of having your largest meal in the evening either. Eat a large meal when you feel hungry, no matter which meal of the day it is. This way you’re feeding your body when it needs fueling the most, and not just when you think you should be based on societal norms. Another good trick is to eat at the same time each day.

# Treat Nausea

Nausea is a common cause of a loss of appetite so treating that could help you feel able to eat properly again. To do so you could try sipping ginger tea, sitting up for a least an hour after eating to relieve pressure on your stomach or getting some fresh air. To learn more about treating Nausea, read our article 19 Home Remedies for Nausea.

# Identify and Treat Underlying Digestive Problems

If your loss of appetite is being caused by an underlying digestive issue, you’ll need to identify and treat that before you notice your appetite improving. You can chat with your doctor about this or try to work out which specific triggers are causing the issues and then redesign your diet or lifestyle to avoid those triggers.

# Treat Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety can also have an effect on your appetite. This is because they alter the level of stress hormone in your body which can cause inflammation. Try using natural remedies to calm your anxiety or lift your depression and hopefully you should start to see your appetite improve again.

# Exercise

Physical activity can really help your digestive system which will help to regulate your appetite. Doing twenty to thirty minutes of aerobic exercise each day should really help. Taking a walk before meals can also help to improve your appetite as well as reducing your stress, inflammation and helps you sleep better.

# Fight Fatigue & Improve Energy Levels

Making sure you can get enough sleep can be a great remedy for loss of appetite.

# Syrup

Syrup works as a home remedy for loss of appetite whether you consume it straight or use it as a topping over fruit or salads. You can also create syrup with some lemon juice, water, and white vinegar, heat it in a pan and let it cool before drinking.

# Tamarind

Tamarind can make a great laxative which helps to promote regular digestion and improve your appetite. Soak the tamarind in a cup of water for a few hours before straining the liquid, adding salt and pepper and drinking. Do this every day for three or four days and you should find your appetite improves again.