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Scientists have identified the mechanism by which the body suppresses appetite during illness. Specialized cells in the gut detect parasites and send signals that prompt the brain to reduce hunger. The process builds gradually over time, explaining why loss of appetite doesn't occur immediately but intensifies as an infection progresses.

Scientists have uncovered how your body actually tells your brain to stop eating when you’re sick. In a new study, researchers found that specialized cells in the gut detect parasites and send signals that ultimately trigger the brain to suppress appetite. This process builds over time, explaining why you may feel fine at first but then suddenly lose interest in food as an infection takes hold.