that break down fat and muscle, causing cachexia by making it harder for the body to keep up with energy needs. These molecules include lipid mobilizing factor, proteolysis-inducing factor, and mitochondrial uncoupling proteins. In addition, uncontrolled inflammation in people with cachexia increases the body's need for nutrients.

The way the body uses nutrients is also changed in cachexia. People with cachexia can have loss of appetite, are