Some people find they don't feel hungry or it is more difficult to eat usual amounts of food can be common after illness including COVID-19 infection. Your appetite will usually go back to normal as you recover.
However, some people find that these symptoms continue for longer periods and they start to lose weight. Find out more about how to cope with a small appetite using the links to the resources below.
There are several good sources of information about coping with reduced hunger or a small appetite which can be helpful during recovery from COVID-19.
The NHS provides general information on the treatment of malnutrition. Most NHS trusts will have fact sheets on coping with a poor appetite or managing malnutrition.
You may find the advice below useful:
- ICU steps and BDA Critical Care Group 'I don't feel hungry' [PDF]
- The Malnutrition Pathway has advice on managing a small appetite [PDF]
- Advice on eating well, managing malnutrition risk and staying hydrated is also provided by the Malnutrition Task Force. This is largely aimed at older people
- Malnutrition Task Force Eating Well in Later Life (aimed at older people) [PDF]
Want to know more about nutrition and COVID-19?
Listen to or watch our podcasts about:
- Diet and COVID-19
- Dietary advice and symptoms, malnutrition, antihistamine diets
- Anti-inflammatory diets with a discussion about the Mediterranean diet in more detail
- Links between food and COVID-19 symptoms which explains how to monitor your symptoms and possible dietary changes you could make