3. Unwanted Weight Loss: Merycism’s Silent Thief
Weight fluctuations are a natural part of life, influenced by factors like diet, exercise, stress, and more. However, in the context of rumination syndrome, an unexpected weight loss can raise eyebrows. And it’s not hard to see why: if food isn’t staying down, the body isn’t getting its due nourishment.
The weight loss tied to Merycism isn’t usually rapid or dramatic. It’s a slow, creeping decrease that may initially go unnoticed. Maybe a favorite pair of jeans starts to fit more loosely, or the face begins to look a bit more gaunt.
It’s a byproduct of the fact that food, once consumed, isn’t being fully utilized. Regurgitation means the body loses out on vital calories and nutrients, which over time, can translate into shedding pounds. Even if the individual eats regularly and maintains a balanced diet, the nutrition doesn’t stick around long enough to be fully absorbed. (3)
