New Delhi, February 20 (IANS). Nowadays, the problem of loss of appetite has become common among many people. Sometimes we ignore it considering it to be the effect of fatigue or busy routine, but if this problem persists then it can be a dangerous signal for the body. Both Ayurveda and science believe that loss of appetite can be a sign of imbalance or some problem in the body.
According to Ayurveda, when the digestive power is weak, interest in food decreases. At the same time, science believes that due to hormonal changes, stress or disease, signals from the brain and stomach do not function properly, due to which one does not feel hungry.
One of the most common causes of loss of appetite is digestive problems. If there are stomach problems like gas, acidity, or constipation, the body demands less food. In Ayurveda it is seen as ‘Ajirna’, i.e. when digestion does not function properly the desire to eat food decreases. There is also problem of heaviness or burning sensation in the stomach.
Diseases are also a major reason for loss of appetite. Conditions like cold, fever, viral infection, stomach inflammation or food poisoning weaken the body. During this time the body tries to save energy and does not want to take time to digest food, hence appetite decreases.
Stress and mental condition also affect appetite. Excessive anxiety, depression, or sadness affects hormones. Due to this change, the brain is unable to send hunger signals to the stomach. Ayurveda links it to ‘mind-diet’ imbalance. When the mind is disturbed, the Agni of the body becomes weak and interest in food decreases.
Some medicines also affect appetite. For example, antibiotics, cancer drugs, pain relievers, and depression medications can reduce the body’s natural appetite. Science says that these medicines change the hormonal signals between the stomach and the brain, due to which the hunger is not felt.
If loss of appetite persists for several days, weight loss starts, weakness is felt or there is lack of nutrition in the body, then one should immediately contact the doctor.
–IANS
PK/DKP
