When falling in love, lots of people feel like they lack appetite - they physically can't eat anything.
While not everyone experiences this effect, it's interesting to know the mechanism of how it works.
Here are a few reasons for that.
Heightened emotional state
Love often brings about intense emotions such as happiness, excitement, and butterflies in the stomach.
These powerful feelings can overshadow the need for food.
People may become so consumed by their emotions that they forget about their hunger and find it difficult to focus on eating.
Reduced stress and anxiety
Love can create a sense of contentment and security, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
When individuals feel less stressed, their appetite may decrease as they no longer rely on food as a source of comfort or emotional support.
Increased dopamine levels
Falling in love triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
The surge of dopamine can create a natural high and boost feelings of happiness and euphoria.
In this state, individuals may find less interest in food since their emotional satisfaction is derived from their romantic connection.
Distraction and preoccupation
Love can occupy a significant amount of mental and emotional space.
Thoughts of the beloved person, daydreaming, and fantasizing about the relationship can consume one's thoughts and attention.
This preoccupation can lead to a decreased focus on eating and a loss of appetite.
Appetite suppression effects
Love may also lead to physiological changes that suppress appetite.
The body's stress response, influenced by the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, can temporarily decrease feelings of hunger.
Additionally, the presence of high levels of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," has been associated with reduced appetite.
Previously, we talked about the benefits of ketogenic diet.
