Unwanted Weight Loss: Risks and Precautions

Maintaining a healthy weight is a common goal for many individuals, but there are instances when weight loss occurs unexpectedly and without intentional effort. Unwanted weight loss can be concerning, as it raises questions about underlying health conditions, dietary imbalances, and psychological factors. Loss of more than 5 per cent of your total weight in 6-12 months is considered unexplained weight loss. 

Recognising the signs and symptoms of unwanted weight loss is crucial for early detection and prompt intervention. Monitoring changes in appetite, energy levels, physical appearance, and overall well-being can provide valuable insights into potential causes and guide individuals towards seeking professional guidance from healthcare providers.

In this article, we delve into the complexities surrounding unwanted weight loss, aiming to shed light on the various factors that can contribute to this phenomenon. We explore the potential medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and psychological aspects that may play a role in unintentional weight loss. 

Potential Reasons For Unwanted Weight Loss 

Unwanted weight loss can occur due to a variety of reasons, and it’s important to investigate the underlying causes to ensure proper management and treatment. Here are some potential reasons for unwanted weight loss in more detail

I. Medical conditions

1. Hypothyroidism 

An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) wherein the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone can significantly increase metabolism, causing rapid weight loss despite an increased appetite.

Read More: Thyroid Diet Chart – Foods to Eat, Foods to Avoid

2. Gastrointestinal Disorders

Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, resulting in weight loss.

3. Diabetes

Both type-1 and type-2  diabetes can cause dramatic weight loss. Research suggests that the development of diabetes causes insulin resistance which prevents the body from utilizing glucose from the blood for energy. Due to this, the body starts burning fat and muscles leading to an overall reduction in body weight.

Additionally, frequent urination is a common symptom of diabetes. It causes your body to lose excess fluids. When the fluid intake does not make up for the loss of fluid from your body, the kidneys have to work harder to filter excess glucose in the body. Consequently, the excess glucose present in the urine draws more fluids from the tissues. It enables your body to lose more calories during urination. This chain of metabolic processes causes weight loss. 

4. Cancer

As per research, certain types of cancer can trigger weight loss through metabolic changes, increased energy expenditure, decreased appetite, or side effects of treatments like chemotherapy. Furthermore, therapies like chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer treatment can cause temporary weight loss due to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or appetite changes.

II. Chronic Infections

Persistent infections, such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, or chronic viral or bacterial infections, can contribute to weight loss due to increased metabolic demands and reduced appetite.

III. Psychological Factors 

According to studies, prolonged stress can suppress appetite and lead to weight loss due to increased production of stress hormones and altered eating patterns. Furthermore, mental health conditions like anxiety, depression etc. can impact appetite, causing a decrease in food intake and subsequent weight loss.

IV. Dietary imbalances

Consuming fewer calories than the body requires for energy can cause an unregulated drop in body weight. Restricted diets, poor appetite, or unintentional changes in eating patterns are the main factors that not only cause calorie imbalance but nutrient deficiencies in the worst cases. 

Summary

Unwanted weight loss can occur due to various reasons, including medical conditions like hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and cancer. Chronic infections and psychological factors like stress and mental health conditions can also contribute to weight loss. Additionally, dietary imbalances, such as consuming too few calories or having a poor appetite, can lead to unregulated weight loss. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for proper management and treatment. Seeking medical advice and addressing any accompanying symptoms is essential to effectively address unwanted weight loss.

Symptoms and Warning Signs of Unwanted Weight Loss

1. Changes in appetite and food intake

Research indicates that unwanted weight loss can be accompanied by changes in appetite and food intake. Individuals may experience a loss of appetite, decreased interest in eating, or a lack of enjoyment in food. They may also have difficulty consuming adequate amounts of food, leading to reduced caloric intake.

2. Fatigue and weakness

As per studies, unexplained weight loss can contribute to feelings of fatigue and weakness. As the body loses essential nutrients and energy stores, individuals may experience a lack of energy and overall weakness. This can impact daily activities and quality of life.

3. Changes in body composition and muscle mass

Unwanted weight loss often results in changes in body composition, particularly a loss of muscle mass as indicated in this study. Individuals may notice a decrease in muscle tone and strength. This can be accompanied by a decrease in overall body size and a more prominent appearance of bones and skeletal structures.

4. Nutritional deficiencies

Unintentional weight loss can lead to nutritional deficiencies due to inadequate nutrient intake. This can manifest as a lack of certain vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients in the body. Common deficiencies include vitamin B12, iron, and protein. Nutritional deficiencies can further contribute to weakness, fatigue, compromised immune function, and other health complications.

Summary 

Unwanted weight loss is accompanied by changes in appetite, including loss of appetite, decreased interest in eating, and difficulty consuming enough food. Fatigue and weakness are common, as the body loses essential nutrients and energy stores. Unwanted weight loss also leads to changes in body composition, such as a loss of muscle mass, decreased muscle tone, and a more prominent appearance of bones. Nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin B12, iron, and protein deficiencies, are common and can contribute to weakness, fatigue, compromised immune function, and other health issues. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if experiencing unexplained weight loss or related symptoms.

Ways To Prevent Unwanted Weight Loss 

Preventing unwanted weight loss involves addressing the underlying causes and ensuring proper nutrition and overall health. Here are some ways to prevent unwanted weight loss:

1. Eat Balanced Diet

Consume a variety of foods from different food groups, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Establish a regular eating pattern, including three main meals and snacks if needed. This can help ensure consistent calorie intake throughout the day. Pay attention to portion sizes to ensure you’re consuming enough calories to meet your energy needs. 

Consult a healthcare professional or dietitian to determine the appropriate macronutrient distribution for your needs.

2. Manage Stress Levels

As aforementioned, chronic stress can contribute to weight loss. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress levels and maintain a healthy appetite.

3. Exercise Regularly 

Engage in regular physical activity to promote overall health and maintain muscle mass. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate exercise routine that supports your weight management goals.

4. Psychological Support

If psychological factors like depression, anxiety, or eating disorders are contributing to weight loss, seek support from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and therapy to address underlying emotional issues and establish healthy coping mechanisms.

5. Regular Check-ups

Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your overall health, address any concerns, and receive appropriate guidance on maintaining a healthy weight.

Summary

To manage and prevent unwanted weight loss, it is important to follow a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods, control portion sizes, establish regular eating patterns, and consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian for personalized guidance. Managing stress levels through stress-reducing activities, engaging in regular exercise, seeking psychological support if needed, and scheduling regular check-ups are also crucial. Taking a comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and mental well-being is essential for maintaining a healthy weight.

HealthifyMe Suggestion 

Nutrition treatment for unintentional weight loss is assuring the intake of adequate calories, protein and micronutrients. Side effects of underlying disease and/or medications can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, thereby also making the consumption of adequate nutrients difficult. Altering your meal plan to include 6 small meals per day as well as including high-calorie, high protein nutrient-dense snacks can be helpful.

You can also make healthy shakes and smoothies with milk or plant milk, yoghurt, oats and fruit. You can also add milk powder to shakes and soups to add extra calories and protein.

Conclusion

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience unexplained or unintentional weight loss to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment.  Remember, it’s important to address the underlying causes of unwanted weight loss, and working closely with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance and support.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is just to disperse knowledge and raise awareness. It does not intend to replace medical advice from professionals. For further information please contact our certified nutritionists Here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. When should I worry about weight loss?

One should worry about weight loss when it occurs without any intentional effort or if it is rapid and significant. Unexplained or unintentional weight loss, typically losing more than 5% of body weight within a 6 to 12-month period, could indicate an underlying health issue.

Q. What is the most common cause of unexplained weight loss?

The most common cause of unexplained weight loss is an underlying medical condition. There are several potential culprits, including gastrointestinal disorders (such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis), thyroid disorders (such as hyperthyroidism), diabetes, cancer (especially in advanced stages), chronic infections (such as tuberculosis or HIV), and mental health conditions (such as depression or anxiety). However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation to determine the specific cause in individual cases.

Q. Is weight loss a serious problem?

Weight loss itself is not inherently a serious problem and can be a normal part of a healthy lifestyle. However, unexplained weight loss without any conscious effort can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention. It’s important to determine the cause of the weight loss and address any associated symptoms or complications.

Q. What tests are done for unexplained weight loss?

When investigating unexplained weight loss, healthcare professionals may recommend a series of tests to identify the underlying cause. The specific tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings. Common tests may include blood tests (e.g., complete blood count, thyroid function tests, liver function tests), imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound, CT scan), stool analysis, urine analysis, and sometimes more specialized tests like endoscopy, colonoscopy, or biopsy. These tests help identify potential underlying conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, gastrointestinal disorders, cancers, infections, or metabolic abnormalities.

Q. Which disease symptoms are weight loss?

Weight loss can be a symptom of various diseases and conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders including celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or chronic pancreatitis. Furthermore, hyperthyroidism can increase metabolism, leading to unintentional weight loss. High blood sugar can also lead to weight loss. Certain types of cancer, particularly advanced stages, can cause weight loss due to increased metabolic demands, decreased appetite, or cancer-related cachexia.

Q. Is there a disease where you lose weight?

There are various conditions that can cause drastic weight loss. It can range from gastrointestinal disorders to hyperthyroidism and high blood sugar levels. Unexplained weight can also be caused by cancer and chronic infections like HIV and TB. 

Q. How much weight loss is too much?

Losing more than 5 per cent of your total weight in 6-12 months can be a worrying cause and an indicative factor for an underlying condition that may need immediate medical attention.  

Research Sources 

1. Weight loss before a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for diabetes complications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5266063/

2. Cancer weight loss: https://www.cancercenter.com/integrative-care/weight-loss
   
3. Stress and Eating Behaviors: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4214609/

4. Unintentional weight loss in older adults: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050948/

5. Interventions for fatigue and weight loss in adults with advanced progressive illness: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6478103/

Effects of Weight Loss on Lean Mass, Strength, Bone, and Aerobic Capacity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5161655/