Dr. Rita George
Try being more physically active. In addition to all the other benefits of exercise and physical activity, it may make you hungrier.
If you aren’t hungry because food just isn’t appealing, there are ways to make it more interesting. Make sure your foods are seasoned well, but not with extra salt. Try using lemon juice, vinegar, or herbs to boost the flavor of your food.
Vary the shape, color, and texture of foods you eat. When you go shopping, look for a new vegetable, fruit, or seafood you haven’t tried before or one you haven’t eaten in a while. Sometimes grocery stores have recipe cards near items. Or ask the produce staff or meat or seafood department staff for suggestions about preparing the new food. Find recipes online. Type the name of a food and the word “recipes” into a search window to look for ideas.
Foods that are overcooked tend to have less flavor. Try cooking or steaming your vegetables for a shorter time and see if that gives them a crunch that will help spark your interest. Spices, herbs, and lemon juice add flavor to your food, without adding salt.
When should you see a doctor?
If you notice that your lack of appetite is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, you should visit your doctor, as you may have an undiagnosed underlying condition:
- Finding it difficult to swallow food
- Not eating for long periods of time
- Not being able to keep food down after eating or any other symptoms that would indicate a more serious condition, such as pain when eating or food getting stuck in the throat
- Unintentional weight loss
If there is, your appetite will likely come back over time as you undertake a treatment plan for the underlying condition.
In most cases, your doctor will order some tests to determine if there’s an underlying cause for your lack of appetite.
Dr. Rita George Family Medicine
Dr. Rita George graduated with honors from Villanova University in PA with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. After completing her undergraduate degree, she received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harrogate, Tennessee. Dr. George completed her Family Medicine Residency at Lonesome Pine in Big Stone Gap, VA. While in residency, she was working at Wellmont Physician Services (currently called Ballad Health) as a resident physician.
Dr. George specializes in a wide variety of conditions and injuries. She treats significant diseases and conditions including cold and flu, asthma and allergies, ear and eye infections, diabetes, high blood pressure, minor wound care, and muscle tears and sprains. To schedule an appointment, call 215-785-9677.
Lower Bucks Hospital Community Health Center, 3rd Floor, 501 Bath Road, Bristol, PA; 215-785-9677; www.lowerbuckshosp.com.