We have a physical requirement for food and nourishment, so that our bodies can function properly. A lacking appetite is a sign that something is amiss. Here are natural ways to increase appetite and combat loss of appetite.
Undereating is a problem, and a lack in appetite can become a symptom of a severe illness. Without sustenance, our bodies cannot recover efficiently from disease or treatment. Before a plunging apetite turns into an eating disorder, there are certain steps you can take to increase appetite.
A loss of appetite can stem from many factors. Perhaps the most common causes are emotional upset, nervousness, tension, anxiety, or depression. Stressful events, such as losing a job, can also make the appetite plummet. Diseases such as influenza and acute infections play a role in appetite reduction, as do anorexia nervosa and fatigue. Illegal and legal drugs, including amphetamines, antibiotics, cough and cold medications, codeine, morphine, and Demerol can take a toll on the appetite. Sometimes poor eating habits, such as continuous snacking, can lead to a poor appetite at mealtimes. A poor appetite can also be one symptom of a serious disease.
Natural ways to increase Appetite (Combat Lack of Appetite)
Black Pepper
Black pepper is often used as an Ayurvedic remedy to improve digestion, increase appetite, and treat gastrointestinal problems. It also relieves stomach and intestinal gas. It stimulates the taste buds, which in turn increases the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, thereby improving digestion. Combine one tbsp of jaggery powder and one-half tsp of ground black pepper.
Consume it on a regular basis for a few days.
Do not use this black pepper remedy if you have stomach ulcers or have had abdominal surgery.
Figs
Dried or fresh, this fruit is a best home remedy to increase appetite. Dates also work the same way in enhancing an appetite. Both figs and dates are a part of weight gain diets and help stimulate appetite. Add a few to your salad to make it more interesting.
Indian Gooseberry
Indian gooseberry (Amla), can aid in increasing a diminished appetite due to the problems of gastrointestinal. Gooseberry is very abundant in vitamin C; it can help to enhance the immunity, and facilitate the absorption of minerals, both of which are very essential if the lack of proper nourishment lead to the nutritional deficiencies.
Mix 2 tsp each of lemon juice and Indian gooseberry juice in one cup of water. Drink this solution every day on an empty stomach in the morning and continue to apply this tip for 3 – 4 months at least to increase appetite.
Ginger
Ginger contains a volatile oil that has the property of improving digestion; it also helps to remove the intestinal gas that is produced during the process of digestion. The best way to make use of these benefits of ginger is to include it in your daily cooking. For better and faster results, you could make some ginger tea, by mixing half a teaspoon of ginger powder into a cup of boiling water and straining it after ten minutes. This can be drunk as such or sweetened with a few drops of honey.
Combining ginger with another strong digestive – coriander – also gives good results for a poor appetite. Make a coarse powder of coriander seeds and dried ginger; then mix them in a proportion of 5:1, add into about 100 ml of water and boil till the volume reduces to half and drink the resulting liquid when it is still warm.
Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate fruit, loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, makes a great rejuvenating drink. It also enhances the appetite naturally. Fresh pomegranate juice with honey works wonders for the one with lacking appetite.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa works as a great appetite stimulant and natural blood and liver cleanser. Being a diuretic, it is also good for those dealing with kidney problems. Alfalfa is excellent for overall health, being rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, and K, as well as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, folic acid, and other nutrients.
Drink alfalfa tea, prepared by steeping one tsp of dried alfalfa leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes.
You can also include alfalfa seeds and sprouts in your meals.
Tips to increase Appetite and Combat Lack of Appetite
- Choose nutrient-rich foods
- Exercise to increase your appetite
- Drink Liquid Meals
- Eat Several Snacks Instead of Large Meals
- Drink Water Between Meals, Not During
