Depression and Loss of Appetite

Depression and Loss of Appetite
There are many side effects of depression-one of which is a decreased appetite. 

For those who are suffering from depression, it can be difficult to eat the foods that are best for you and your health. 

While this may not seem like a big deal, it can actually be very dangerous because it can lead to malnutrition and other health problems. 

However, there are things you can do to increase your appetite and keep your body healthy.

In this blog post, we will discuss the link between depression and loss of appetite, as well as ways you can improve your eating habits.

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Katherine Fijman, LPCC, LACC

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Emily Murphy, LPC

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What is the Link Between Depression and Loss of Appetite

One of the most common symptoms for people with depression is a lack of interest in activities that they once enjoyed. 

This can mean missing out on preparing or eating food, which has a significant impact on your mood if you're not careful!

Cooking and eating may seem like a heavy task when you are feeling depressed.

Depression often leads to an increase in anxiety, which can make people feel sick with gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

Many people experience depression and feel like there is no hope for them. 

They may not eat or drink anything, which can lead to even more problems as it starts becoming harder on the body.

Depression often makes people feel as though they don't like themselves and their health doesn't matter.

They may also believe that if things get worse, then maybe eating or feeling better won't be possible for them either way.

Foods That Can Help With Depression

The foods that you eat can have a huge effect on your mood. Some studies show particular types of food, like vegetables and nuts or fish, for example, may help to boost creativity.

Foods that are rich in folic acid, including avocado and spinach, can help boost your mood because they contain the nutrient known as folate which helps regulate serotonin levels! 

Foods that are rich in omega-3 acids, including salmon and tuna can be an excellent way to combat the symptoms of depression. 

These healthy fats work by boosting your mood because they increase serotonin production which helps regulate feelings like joy or calmness when you're stressed out! 

Some of the best sources for B-12 include animal products, such as eggs and milk. Other great choices include fish; lean meats like pork or beef (especially if they're grass-fed).

Depression can be caused by a lack of essential nutrients like Vitamin C. But, there are plenty of foods you could eat to get your daily dose! 

Broccoli is one such food that has been shown in studies as being helpful for people with depression because it's high on the nutrient content scale and also contains glucosinolate which helps fight off inflammation associated with depression symptoms.

Things You Can do at Home to Help Your Depression

  1. Follow your routine: It is important to stay consistent when you are trying to get better. Don't let the depression win; keep following your routine even if it feels like a losing battle at first!
  2. Have a balanced diet: The key to overcoming depression is eating a well-balanced and varied diet. It's important for your brain's chemical balance, as well as providing you with the energy needed every day!
  3. Have limits: If you are feeling down, it's best to avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can make your depression worse.
  4. Exercise: Exercise is a powerful tool to combat depression. Aerobic exercises, such as jogging or dancing can stimulate your appetite and make you feel better because it releases endorphins which give rise an elevated mood-therefore giving hope for the future!

Treatment Options for Depression

See a Dietician

Depression and loss of appetite make it hard for someone to feel hungry or full, which might lead them to nutritional deficiency. 

A dietitian could help by creating meals that are nutritionally balanced and take your individual needs into account (ease of preparation). 

For example, if you're not having any energy then the menu will include easy-to-prepare food items so there isn't too much work on preparing a meal but still provides necessary nutrients needed each day.

Speak to Your Doctor

With depression and loss of appetite, you should see your doctor if you lose your appetite and have the following symptoms for more than 1-2 weeks: 

  • extreme fatigue 
  • unintentional weight loss 
  • fever 


If depression and loss of appetite have been going on longer than 48 hours or is happening now with no end in sight, be sure to seek help as soon as possible. 

Seek Out Therapy

If you are suffering from depression and loss of appetite, therapy is a great way to manage depression.

Counseling can be a great way to get your mind back on track and improve psychological well-being. 

It's often used as an intervention for people who are struggling with depression and loss of appetite due to other sources such as stress management issues at work.

Conclusion

Just because you have depression and loss of appetite, that doesn't mean you have to suffer in silence. 

There are plenty of things you can do to increase your appetite and improve your mood

Foods that are high in protein and healthy fats can help boost your energy levels and make you feel fuller longer. 

Exercise is also a great way to combat depression and increase your appetite.

If these measures don't work, it may be time to see a doctor or a therapist. 

They can help you find the right treatment plan for you and get your life back on track. 

Have you ever struggled with decreased appetite due to depression? Leave a comment below and let us know how you coped.

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June 6th, 2023

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