CSSD Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

Decreased appetite can be a significant indicator of overtraining. When an individual undergoes excessive training without adequate recovery, the body can experience physical and mental fatigue. This state of stress may lead to hormonal changes that can suppress appetite. Stress hormones, like cortisol, can interfere with the body's natural hunger signals, resulting in a reduced desire to eat. The physiological response to overtraining can manifest as a lack of motivation to consume food, which is crucial for recovery and performance.

In contrast, increased hunger might occur in situations where an athlete is in a caloric deficit or engaging in rigorous training patterns without the complete symptoms of overtraining. Stable eating habits or no changes in food preferences could indicate that the body is in a maintenance phase rather than experiencing the stress associated with overtraining. Recognizing a decrease in appetite as a response to overtraining highlights the importance of proper recovery and nutrition in an athlete's training regimen.