8. Loss of Appetite: The Mysterious Disinterest in Food
Food is not just about sustenance; it’s also about pleasure. But for women battling gastric ulcers, this pleasure often diminishes.
There’s a sudden and inexplicable loss of appetite. Favorite foods lose their allure, and meals become a task rather than an enjoyment.
At first, it might be subtle. Maybe skipping a meal here and there, or leaving a plate half-finished. But gradually, the pattern emerges.
The very thought of food induces nausea or recalls the burning pain of heartburn. Over time, this creates a mental block, with the mind associating meals with discomfort.
But there’s a physiological aspect as well. The ulcer, causing inflammation and discomfort, can send signals to the brain, suppressing hunger.
It’s the body’s way of preventing further aggravation of the ulcer site. Moreover, the slow internal bleeding, often associated with ulcers, can lead to anemia, further reducing appetite.(8)
