Appetite is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain, which monitors your body's hormone and sugar levels to determine energy needs for effective functioning, according to MedBio. A decreased appetite means a reduced desire to eat. If your appetite has dropped, this can lead to unintended weight loss and other health problems. Appetite loss can indicate the presence of disease or health complications, according to Medline Plus. Elderly individuals may experience a loss of appetite with no apparent cause. Eating foods that induce appetite can help address the issue of consuming sufficient nutrition amounts each day, but talking with a doctor can help address potential underlying issues.
Fatty Foods
A hormone present in fatty foods, called ghrelin, may trigger the hunger hormone in your body that stimulates the body's desire to consume food, according to a University of Cincinnati study. Although the June 2009 study used lab mice to draw conclusions, it's possible that humans consuming fatty foods may also experience increased ghrelin levels that result in the stimulated desire for food.
Favorite Foods
Eating your favorite foods, whether it's a three-cheese macaroni casserole or homemade blueberry muffins, can also help induce appetite, according to Medline Plus. Ask family members to prepare your favorite dishes or prepare comfort food dishes for yourself. It may be helpful to consume favorite foods with friends or family members, according to ABC News medical contributor Dave Katz in a 2006 WebWire press release.
Variety
Foods that induce appetite often come from a variety of sources, according to Katz. Eat small meals and snacks throughout the day, using spices to add appealing flavor. Choosing foods from different food groups, with different flavor combinations, helps keep your appetite stimulated. Combine fruits, vegetables, olive oils, carbohydrates, protein selections and healthy fats, such as avocado, for best results.
Herbs and Supplements
Consuming certain herbs and herbal supplements may help induce appetite, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. For example, dandelion roots are used to help stimulate appetite and aid with digestion. The South African shrub known as "Devil's claw" is also thought to induce appetite and address upset stomach conditions. Yarrow, a member of the aster family, may also address appetite loss.
Avoid Certain Foods
If you're eating less because of a reduced appetite, it's crucial that the foods consumed are healthy ones, according to Katz. Reduce or avoid saturated fats, such as those found in pork and butter, and eliminate hydrogenated oils found in processed food items. Cookies, cakes, white bread, white sugar, crackers and pastries should also be avoided. Low-carb diets that prominently feature protein and fat can adversely affect appetite, since protein makes you feel full longer, according to MayoClinic.com.
Caution
Loss of appetite can signify mental health challenges, including grief, depression or anxiety, according to Medline Plus. Reduced appetites might also signify serious health conditions, including ovarian cancer, chronic kidney failure, dementia or heart failure. If you've tried eating foods that induce appetite without effect, consult with a health care professional, especially if you notice other changes in your body.
References
- Medline Plus: Appetite -- Decreased
- MedBio: Appetite and Metabolism and Obesity
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs and Medical Supplements for Appetite Loss
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dandelion
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Devil's Claw
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Yarrow
Member Comments