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Dr. Karthikeyan Selvaraju

Consultant - Laparoscopic and Gastrointestinal Surgery

Manipal Hospitals, Salem

Why Do I Feel So Hungry All The Time?

Posted On: Apr 29, 2024

blogs read 5 Min Read

Eating Behaviours: 12 Reasons for Feeling Hungry All the Time

Do you often feel hungry right after a big meal? 

Although it is normal to have occasional hunger pangs, continuous and excessive hunger can be an irritating situation. The causes could range from lack of nutrients, not eating the right amount or type of food to certain medical conditions. 

In this blog, let us discuss all the Reasons for feeling hungry all the time and understand the messages your body may be sending.
 

 

Eating Behaviours: Reasons for Feeling Hungry All the Time 

The frequency of our hunger can also be influenced by the daily routines we follow.

REASON

EXPLANATION

Missed Meals

It disturbs the body's natural hunger pattern and may result in excessive eating later on.

Portion Sizes

Unmindful eating means consistently underestimating your food intake. This keeps you unsatisfied in terms of hunger.

Eating Too Hastily

Quick consumption of food prevents your body from receiving satiety signals from the stomach. This results in overeating.

Stress

This causes a desire for unhealthy, calorie-dense foods, resulting in increased hunger.

Sleep Deprivation

An increase in ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and a decrease in leptin (the satiety hormone). This results in an increase in appetite.

 

Physiological Causes of Increased Hunger

There are several bodily reasons why you feel hungry after eating.

REASON

EXPLANATION

Calorie insufficiency

Consuming fewer calories than what our body requires can make us feel hungrier. 

Lack of nutrients

Protein, fibre, and healthy fats are important for controlling the feeling of fullness.

Changes in blood sugar levels

Refined carbs and sugary foods can change our blood sugar levels and make us feel hungry shortly after eating.

Dehydration

Hunger can be confused with thirst.


Consult our gastro hospital in Salem if you need treatment for feeling hungry after eating.

Medical Issues Making You Feel Hungry

Specific health issues can lead to increased feelings of hunger. Here are some always hungry reasons with an explanation. 

REASON EXPLANATION

Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism)

Overly active thyroid boosts metabolism. It causes a persistent feeling of hunger.

Diabetes

Poorly managed diabetes can result in changes in blood sugar levels and increase our hunger.

Cushing's Syndrome

It is a hormonal condition that can increase hunger and weight gain.

 

If you think there may be a medical reason for this feeling hungry after eating, seek advice from our specialised gastroenterologists in Salem to avoid complications.

How to Address Persistent Hunger?

Here are a few actions you can take to address persistent hunger:

  • Monitor Your Diet: Record what you eat. This can assist you in recognising your eating behaviour. Notice if you are getting adequate calories and vital nutrients and address it accordingly.

  • Emphasise Whole Foods: Give priority to whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources. It helps you stay satisfied for a longer period.

  • Drink Enough Fluid: Stay hydrated by consuming an adequate amount of water all day to prevent the confusion between thirst and hunger. You can also opt for juices to keep your body hydrated.

  • Release Stress: Utilise stress-relief methods such as yoga or meditation to reduce cravings triggered by mental stress.

  • Practice Mindful Eating: Enjoy your meal. Take your time. Listen to your body's signals of hunger and fullness.

Read our Top Foods For Acidity: What To Eat And Avoid blog to learn more about what to eat and what you can avoid. 

  • Maintain a Healthy Sleep Cycle: Ensure you get 7-8 hours of good quality sleep every night. This will help regulate your hormones and appetite.

By figuring out the causes of your hunger and changing your diet and lifestyle accordingly, you can develop a better connection with food and remain content all day. However, if you still feel hungry even after following these tips for a certain period, we recommend you visit Manipal Hospital Salem and meet our experienced gastroenterologists to ensure there is no underlying health issue and receive the best possible results to manage increased hunger pangs. 

FAQ's

The reasons for feeling hungry all the time may be due to a lack of nutrients, not getting sufficient calories, changes in sugar levels from sugary foods, or dehydration. Discuss your condition with our expert gastroenterologists in Salem to understand the cause accurately.
 

Although it is normal to experience hunger from time to time, persistent hunger combined with other symptoms may indicate a potential medical issue. So, if you think there may be a health concern, meet our top gastroenterologists and receive guidance to manage the underlying cause.
 

Nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can keep you full. Ensure you drink enough water, control stress levels, and practice mindful eating. Getting adequate sleep is also equally important to help regulate your appetite.
 

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