Appetite loss ( Anorexia )

A good appetite, neither overbearing nor meager, is a sign of health. Nevertheless, poor appetite is not necessarily cause for concern, since even the slightest physical and emotional problems can affect appetite. Other symptoms are bloating,  indigestion, constipation, nausea or pain. However, when appetite loss continues, or is accompanied by weight loss, the cause should be investigated further to rule out more serious illnesses.

Poor appetite has a multitude of causes, but the most likely cause lies in the digestive tract and nearby organs. Almost every stomach and intestinal problem will disturb appetite, including constipation, diarrhea, indigestion and ulcers. Disorders of the gall-bladder, pancreas and liver can be a source of slow digestion from a lack of enzymes, and this in turn can cause appetite loss. Strong emotions such as grief, depression and stress or anxiety affect appetite. Even the mildest emotional distress can cause stomach upset and tame a hearty appetite in a susceptible person.

Bad eating habits also contribute. Common problems are snacking on sweets and soft drinks between meals, and eating large, heavy meals containing saturated fats. Deep-fried food is particularly hard to digest. In contrast, small meals rich in vegetables and fruit are easy to digest and taste good. Appealing taste is vital for a hearty appetite; for those who suffer from an inability to taste and smell properly, such as the elderly and the chronically ill, extra seasoning may be necessary. Many types of medications cause nausea, constipation and other stomach problems., and insufficient nutrients and alcoholism are other problems that affect appetite.

Appetite loss often serves a purpose. During a feverish infection, the body places all its energy into its defense mechanisms and food is irrelevant. In the case of digestive trouble, rest from food allows healing to occur more easily.

Supplements and herbs

When combating appetite loss over long periods, the body must keep up its strength and weight. A vitamin B complex can be taken instead of, or in conjunction with, the yeast. Many green foods, especially alfalfa, are highly nourishing and stimulate appetite. Alfalfa is available in capsules and powders, but sprouted alfalfa is best fresh in a salad.

A nutritional deficiency in vitamins A, C or E can also cause poor appetite and a troubled digestion. The elderly are most vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies, especially if fruits and vegetables are not adequate in the diet. If zinc is lacking, smell and taste will be affected. Medications including the contraceptive pill cause zinc and folic acid deficiencies.

For a chronically depressed appetite, bitter herb juices, taken half an hour before meals, are excel-lent for stimulating the appetite. Any of the recommended herbs can be taken as teas or diluted  tinctures, depending on personal preference and availability. However, juices are milder than tinctures and are gentle on the stomach and intestines. Especially for an undernourished person, the freshly pressed juices provide the vitamins and minerals needed.

• Take 1 tbsp. of dandelion, wormwood, hyssop or yarrow juice in water fifteen minutes before meals.
• Swedish bitters are an old proven combination of bitter herbs that stimulate bile flow and aid digestion. Take 1 tsp. before and after meals.
• Green, leafy herbs, especially alfalfa, are highly nourishing and stimulate appetite. Take 1 tbsp. fresh juice before breakfast and lunch.
• If appetite loss is emotional or stress-related, sip fennel, chamomile, fenugreek, lemon balm or peppermint tea throughout the day. These herbs, taken alone or combined, have a soothing effect on the stomach. Use 1 tsp. of herbs per cup of boiling water.

Aromatherapy

Commonly used essential oils for appetite loss:

• Bergamot
• Caraway
• Chamomile
• Cinnamon
• Coriander
• Ginger
• Hyssop
• Ylang - Ylang

What else you can do

• Dry skin-brushing the stomach area is simple and beneficial. Histamine is produced in the skin, which stimulates the stomach juices and digestive acids.
• Warm, moist compresses and Kneipp water therapy on the stomach and liver area are very helpful.
• Vigorous exercise like walking, swimming and biking can stimulate the appetite.
• If appetite loss is due to an emotional problem, a temporary change of environment or location is advisable.

How much to take

• Vitamin B complex, 50 mg one to three times daily
• Alfalfa, 2-4 mg of the capsules or 1 tbsp. of powder, three times daily
• Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg three times daily
• Zinc, 20 mg, with 3 mg copper, three times daily until appetite returns, then reduce intake to 20 mg once daily
• Vitamin A, 25,000 IU
• Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400-800 IU

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