Weight loss

While some people have a lot of trouble keeping their weight down, others cannot sustain enough weight and run the problem of losing energy and becoming malnourished. Weight loss is often associated with fatigue, chilliness, low energy drive and listlessness. It causes low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, which in turn may cause dizziness, irritability and weakness. A slight loss of weight is normal during sickness, when the body is feverish or fighting an acute illness.

The very young, the old and the sick are most susceptible to weight loss, which further reduces overall resistance to disease and causes chronic fatigue. Eating high-calorie, low-nutrient meals is unhealthy and aggravates malnutrition and dull appetite. Sudden weight loss should always be investigated, as it can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious internal illness.

Temporary weight loss often results from periods of high stress, nervousness and emotional upset, and usually resolves itself with a little help from a good diet and a healthy lifestyle. Depression causes persistent problems with appetite and weight loss. Unfortunately, these symptoms only perpetuate the listlessness and fatigue associated with depression. Weight loss is also due to poor diet. Not knowing how to cook can be an impediment to a healthy diet, though this is easily remedied.

The elderly are strong candidates for weight loss because of a multitude of problems which affect weight and appetite, including fatigue, overmedication, depression and constant pain. They are often dependent on others for their food and may dislike what they are served.

Intestinal tract problems affect appetite or cause poor absorption, which leads to weight loss. Possible problems are celiac disease, chronic ulcers, parasites and Crohn's disease. Some of the more serious causes of weight loss are diabetes and an overactive thyroid. Wasting illnesses like tuberculosis, cancer and HIV can cause dramatic weight loss. Eating disorders such as anorexia must also be considered.

Supplements and herbs

A healthy diet is important for increasing weight. Nutritional supplements ensure that proper nutrients are included. A multivitamin will provide the essential vitamins. The B vitamins are important building blocks and also stimulate appetite.

When all other serious causes of this condition have been ruled out, natural herbal therapies and appetite stimulants can be applied. If the patient has been deprived of a diet containing the essential nutrients for a long time, a recuperation program should be supervised by a qualified health practitioner.

• Use plenty of culinary herbs to make meals appetizing.
• Juices from fresh, leafy green herbs like dandelion, spinach, stinging nettle, borage and watercress will help supply vitamins and minerals. Take 1 tbsp. of herbal juice daily.
• Fenugreek, gentian, Icelandic moss, caraway, lemon balm and yarrow teas are useful appetite stimulants. Add 1 cup of boiling water to 1 tsp. of herbs, steep for ten minutes, strain and drink 1 cup three times daily.

What else you can do

• A regular routine of exercise including walking or swimming will stimulate the glands, increase the appetite and help normalize metabolic functions. Exercise also ensures that the weight gained is muscle, not just fat.
• Daily cold water stepping for five minutes every morning will improve circulation and metabolism.
• Dry brush the stomach area twice daily to promote proper digestion.

How much to take

• Multivitamin, with minerals, as recommended on the label
• Vitamin B complex, 50 mg daily

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