You Lose Weight Without Trying
BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
Although losing weight is a goal for many Americans, suddenly dropping several pounds without trying isn’t a good thing; it’s actually cause for alarm instead. According to Harvard Health, “Doctors become most concerned about unintentional weight loss if it reaches more than five percent of the usual body weight (about ten pounds).”
There are many causes of unwanted weight loss, and some are quite serious. Chronic medical problems and acute illnesses such as pneumonia can be to blame, as can “undiagnosed cancer, long-term infections, depression, heart or lung disease, and digestive problems that prevent the body from absorbing nutrients from food.” Be sure to visit your doctor right away if you’ve suddenly dropped weight.
