appetite?

[hikeraz]

so what's up with a lack of appetite? Is this just a "me" thing or an ALS thing?

 

[Syekick]

I've had my appetite fall over over the months. Pretty much I never feel the true urge to eat like I used to. Thank goodness I like the taste of things so I still eat and snack.

 

[bob_s]

My appetite comes and goes depending on what I'm thinking about such as my limitations vs what I can still do. I try to remind myself that I'll look back on this as the good times when I could still walk using my Rollator and one arm works fine and I get out of the house some.

 

[hjlindley]

My appetite has definitely fallen since diagnosis. Sometimes I have to force myself to eat just to make sure I get enough calories. Asked my narrow about it and they're starting to think that perhaps the muscles and our G.I. tracks are emptying the system as efficiently as they used to. I know in my case the before diagnosis I was teaching 6 to7 exercise classes a week so I was always hungry. All of my childhood my mother worried about me getting hungry because she said it made me cranky. Now I just have to pay attention and remember to eat

 

[pearshoot]

its very important to maintain weight. i need about 2400 calories a day but have managed to maintain for three years. consider mixing a health drink in addition to your meals. milk, musclel milk (proteine), carbohydrates, creatine, fruit, honey. its easier to drink something when you have no appitite. keep some boost or ensure on hand for quick filler

 

[vzandt]

My husband doesn't have the appetite he used to. Nothing sounds good to him anymore. He eats fine. It's just not as much...and I have to sneak the veggies in. He's gaining weight? Especially in his stomach and he gets full on a hamburger. Full for hours? I don't get it.

 

[ltbeauti]

Not much appetite here either. I started losing weight and instead of getting a PEG right away, I opted for adding liquid calories by making smoothies or when I don't feel like expelling the energy I drink half a nutritional supplement (Ensure or Generic). then drink the other half an hour later.
It is suggested that you get a PEG ASAP by most all ALS specialists. It is very important that you maintain your weight.
I am a slow progressor and have a good FVC (breathing). so I opted for no PEG for now. Eventhough it is probably not real wise.
I have maintained my weight for 2 years now and eventhough I am bulbar onset, I can still swallow withouit choking if I follow guidlines (sit up straight, tucking my chin before swallowing etc.)
So add those calories into your diet somehow. Some PALS even develop a sort of high metabolism thing that burns up calories faster.

 

[Barbie]

also can add Benecal to your meals--order online--one ounce has 300 calories and is tasteless and easy to mix into things.

I've heard the high metabolism thing too, and also that as the diaphram and core muscles weaken so they do not push the food thru as quickly so less hunger.

 

[sadiemae]

A good med to help with depression,and insomnia is Mirtazipine. A side effect is a craving for food.

 

[ottawa girl]

I have the exact opposite issue- gaining weight at record speeds. I'm the largest I've ever been and which I know is due to emotional eating. Craving junk food and "comfort" food. Was a dedicated vegetarian for decades- until 1 month post diagnosis. It's so strange- ginormous muffin tops- on my person.

I am concerned this weight is contributing to breathing issues (shortness of breath) and wonky legs (not to mention getting off the couch!)

Yesterday resolved that 2013 - I'd laying off the cheetos and bacon

Today: Day 1 Ate chips & chocolate instead.

ARGHHH!

 

[berniec74]

I have had my normal appetite and yearning for crappy food like McDonald's, mexican, greek, etc. However, in my own home I can still get around but I get lazy and end up eating less than I normally would...so don't over think it...try to eat as you did prior and maybe bulk up with things you like such as Dairy Queen Blizzards or milk shakes, etc....If you feel it's more serious than please consult a dietitian or your doctor.

 

[momap53]

I'm in the boat with Elaine!

When I realized that eating might not be an option down the road, I set out to try, and enjoy all types of food. With the decrease in physical ability I also put on a great deal of weight. Some research indicates that this may be protective. I did lose my taste for sweets and baked goods and much prefer savory items.

Remember that most ALS Clinics have weigh in and that a loss of more than 5 pounds will bring on a lecture and concern that it may be time for a PEG.

Using the BiPap for about a half hour before a meal helps with the fatigue. Now that my arms are failing I'm really tired from the effort of just getting the food to my mouth. My Dietitian suggests eating smaller more frequent meals.

I got lots of chocolate for Christmas! Chocolate covered pretzels are a favorite. My neighbor even brought me some chocolate covered ruffles potato chips.(a first for me). I'm happy to share!:lol:

 

[ottawa girl]

Deb,

Glad to know I'm not alone.. chocolate covered ruffles sound great. Exactly what I ate yesterday.. but as separate items.
Sweet + salty = yummy.

 

[Barbie]

elaine and Deb---LOLOLOLOL.

My husband is also a chocolatae and sugar fiend now. (and salt) he is super skinny though

started at 200, now 125.

 

[linz6418]

Hello. While reading up on various options for my dad, I took note that THC (marijuana) can help with symptoms and improve appetite. I have already purchased my dad a vaporizer for his birthday. Some of you may not have a child that can help you with the necessary materials to enjoy the vaporizer, but some of you might also live in a state where marijuana is legal. Either way, I strongly encourage you to reach out to younger family members who might be able to help or other individuals you may trust to see if this option might work for you. **removed/scam**. Good luck!