Loss of appetite is a common experience for many individuals in early pregnancy. This can manifest as a general disinterest in food or lack of desire to eat. While pregnancy is often associated with increased cravings, a reduced appetite is a real, temporary symptom.
Why Appetite Changes Occur
Significant hormonal shifts during early pregnancy are a primary reason for changes in appetite. The hormones human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estrogen, and progesterone all rise rapidly, influencing the digestive system and the brain’s hunger signals. These hormonal changes can lead to common symptoms like nausea and vomiting, often called morning sickness. Nausea and vomiting can significantly impact food intake.
A heightened sense of smell is another factor contributing to appetite changes. Pregnancy can increase sensitivity to odors, making familiar food smells unappealing or even triggering nausea and vomiting. This can lead to specific food aversions, making certain foods repulsive. Changes in taste perception, sometimes causing a metallic taste, can also make foods less appealing. Additionally, the hormone progesterone can slow down digestion, contributing to a feeling of fullness and reduced hunger.
Coping with Appetite Changes
Managing changes in appetite during early pregnancy involves adjusting eating habits. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent an empty stomach, which may worsen nausea. Instead of three large meals, consuming smaller portions every few hours can be more tolerable. Choosing bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, rice, bananas, or applesauce is often recommended, as they are easily tolerated.
Staying well-hydrated is also important, especially with nausea or vomiting, as dehydration worsens symptoms. Sipping fluids like water, ginger ale, or herbal teas throughout the day, rather than large amounts with meals, can be helpful. Avoiding trigger foods, like spicy, fatty, or strong-smelling dishes, can reduce discomfort. Cold foods, which tend to have less aroma, may also be more palatable than hot ones.
When to Consult a Doctor
While appetite changes are common, certain signs warrant medical advice. Persistent and severe nausea and vomiting, known as hyperemesis gravidarum, is a severe condition requiring medical attention. Symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum include prolonged and frequent vomiting (more than three times a day), significant weight loss (more than 5% of pre-pregnancy weight), and signs of dehydration.
Symptoms of dehydration can include feeling thirsty, tiredness, dizziness or lightheadedness, dark yellow urine, or producing little to no urine. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if unable to keep food or fluids down for 24 hours, or if experiencing vomiting blood. Consult a doctor if loss of appetite is accompanied by extreme fatigue, confusion, a fast heart rate, or severe abdominal pain.