Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is a common symptom among people with liver disease, so much so that it’s often the first sign of liver trouble. Of course, liver disease can have several causes, such as an autoimmune disease, hepatitis, or fatty liver—but regardless of the cause, loss of appetite is one way the body may be telling you something is wrong.
The liver plays a large role in metabolism and nutrient absorption. It filters out excess nutrients, salts, and fats from the blood and converts them into energy for the body’s use. The liver also produces bile that helps break down fats and supports digestion. For these reasons, a healthy liver ensures proper absorption of nutrients inside and outside the body. However, when its ability to do this is compromised, the body may produce symptoms of malnutrition or indigestion to alert you of the problem.
Loss of appetite is one such symptom; it indicates that your organ systems are beginning to shut down due to poor nutrition management. When you do not eat regularly or properly, your organs starve for more nutrients than your bloodstream can provide. This causes inflammation in those areas and leads to further complications like rashes and kidney failure. When your body begins to experience these symptoms, it’s time to take a step back and evaluate your diet. Add healthier fats, proteins, and fiber by incorporating nuts, seeds, and whole grains into every meal.