There are times when I lose weight even without exercising or controlling my diet. Instead of just feeling happy that I naturally lost weight, I should check my health condition. It could be that I have developed an illness without realizing it, which is causing the weight loss.

 

If you have lost more than 5% of your original weight over six months without trying to lose weight, it is advisable to visit a hospital.

Various diseases can be causes of weight loss. The most common concern among people is cancer. Cancers such as colon cancer, bile duct cancer, and blood cancer often accompany rapid weight loss.

Cancer cells overconsume proteins and carbohydrates during their growth process. Since nutrients are taken away from the cancer cells, muscle and fat may decrease, leading to weight loss. If cancer develops in the digestive organs such as the stomach or colon, food may not be properly digested, causing rapid weight loss. However, a sudden weight loss does not necessarily mean cancer. Only 16-36% of cases of involuntary weight loss are attributed to cancer.

In addition to cancer, diabetes can also cause weight loss. Diabetes is a condition in which the insulin hormone secreted by the pancreas does not function properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. When there is an excessive amount of sugar in the blood, the surplus glucose is excreted in the urine, and sugar is not effectively converted into cellular energy. As a result, body fat and proteins in the body are used as alternative energy sources, which can lead to weight loss. If you are eating well but suddenly losing weight, experiencing severe thirst, and increasing urination, diabetes may be suspected.

 

Patients with hyperthyroidism can also experience involuntary weight loss. Hyperthyroidism causes an excess secretion of thyroid hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. As a result, the basal metabolic rate increases excessively, leading the body to use muscles and fat as energy sources. If symptoms such as feeling hot, sweating excessively, rapid heartbeat, and restlessness accompany weight loss, it is advisable to consider this condition. If left untreated, it can lead to heart complications or arrhythmias, so prompt treatment is recommended.

 

There are cases of weight loss due to inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease being representative. Nutrients consumed are not well absorbed in the intestines, leading to weight loss. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools that persist for several months alongside weight loss may raise suspicion.

 

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You should know.

6 months of the existing weight

More than 5%..

 

I've always wondered about this too.