Loss of Appetite

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A ‘healthy appetite’ has always been perceived as a sign of good health, especially in children. When we send our kids off to school, knowing they’ve had a hearty breakfast, we feel confident that we’re giving them a head start to a successful day. But what exactly is ‘appetite’, and how does the body regulate it?1

Appetite in a nutshell

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Appetite is a desire and a need for food. It is controlled by the hypothalamus, an area in the brain. The one part of the hypothalamus controls appetite, and the other part controls satiety (fullness).1
Appetite is mainly regulated by the stomach, the tone and movement of the gastro-intestinal tract, and the secretion of bile and digestive enzymes.1

When appetite decreases

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A decreased appetite is when your desire to eat is reduced. The correct medical term is anorexia, not to be confused with anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder. Appetite loss is common, especially in children, and there could be many reasons. Some children are just fussy eaters and grow out of their poor appetite. In some instances loss of appetite is due to emotional stress.

Why appetite decreases

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Sometimes there is no specific reason why one’s appetite decreases. 1 However, some common causes may include:

  • Illnesses/disease. These include, among others: TB (tuberculosis), bacterial infections and worm infestations.
  • Medication. Certain medications can reduce appetite, including: anti-asthmatics, anti-TB medicines, anti-cancer medicines and medicines for the treatment of attention deficit disorders.

Appetite loss: the consequences

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When a child or adult is not hungry, they tend to eat less, inadequate food intake may lead to malnutrition and reduced immunity, sometimes resulting in increased bouts of illness.1 Childhood is a time of rapid growth and when the body doesn’t get the nutrients it needs, physical and mental development and performance could be affected.

Is there a natural, effective solution?

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Yes! 1All-natural Hapenz Syrup is scientifically formulated to assist in the following:

  • Stimulate appetite
  • Increase food intake
  • Improve assimilation
  • Promote weight gain
  • Build immunity
  • Enhance cognitive function

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