Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 12: Unintentional weight loss refers to a noticeable reduction in body weight that occurs without any deliberate effort to slim down. If a person maintains the same diet and activity level but still loses weight unexpectedly, it may signal an underlying health concern.

According to the British Medical Journal’s Best Practice Report, unintentional weight loss is defined as losing at least 5% of one’s usual body weight within 6 to 12 months, unrelated to treatment for a known illness. Experts caution that sudden or significant weight loss warrants immediate medical evaluation.

Possible causes of unintentional weight loss include:

1. Medical conditions:

o Various cancers can alter metabolism and suppress appetite.

o Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid speeds up metabolism, leading to weight loss.

o Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes may prevent proper glucose utilization.

o Gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or ulcers reduce nutrient absorption.

2. Mental health issues:

Depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions can affect appetite, sometimes leading to eating disorders and subsequent weight loss.

3. Medications:

Certain drugs used for depression, cancer, or chronic illnesses may suppress appetite or cause nausea, resulting in weight reduction.

4. Chronic infections:

Diseases such as tuberculosis or HIV/AIDS can raise metabolic demands while lowering appetite, leading to rapid weight loss.

5. Lifestyle changes:

Increased physical activity without adequate calorie intake may also cause weight reduction.

6. Elderly age:

Older adults are prone to weight loss due to metabolic changes, dental problems, or diminished appetite.

Health experts stress that unintentional weight loss is not always a sign of good health. Individuals noticing unexpected changes in body weight should seek timely medical advice to identify the root cause and receive appropriate treatment.