Symptom 9. Loss of Appetite: The Mysterious Vanishing Hunger
Food, a source of joy and sustenance, can lose its allure with NHL. It’s not just about not feeling hungry; it’s a profound disinterest, even aversion to meals. Flavors become bland, and satiety hits sooner than usual.
The puzzle behind this is captivating. NHL can alter metabolic signals, confusing the body’s hunger cues. Ghrelin, the hunger hormone, sees a decline, while leptin, signaling fullness, spikes. It’s as if the body’s communication lines are crossed.
There’s also the nausea, sometimes accompanying NHL. It adds another layer to the dwindling appetite. Foods once loved now evoke aversion, and meals become a chore rather than a pleasure.
Beyond the physical aspect, there’s a social dimension. Meals, often communal activities, lose their charm. There’s a subtle withdrawal, a preference for solitude over shared dining experiences. It’s a silent testament to the changes brewing within.(9)
