Why Do Some People Always Feel Hungry?
It’s well-known that the human body relies on food as a source of energy. Naturally, you’ll feel hungry if you haven’t eaten for a few hours or after engaging in intense activities, like working out at the gym or lifting weights. Your body will definitely need nourishment to recover. I’ve previously discussed this in detail in articles about post-workout meals.
However, if you constantly feel hungry—even after eating—it could be due to a condition known as polyphagia, which might indicate an underlying health issue. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult a doctor.
Conditions That Cause Persistent Hunger
1. Diabetes
Our bodies convert the sugar in the food we eat into glucose. Unfortunately, in people with diabetes, glucose cannot reach the cells and is instead excreted through urine. As a result, the body demands more food. Individuals with type 1 diabetes, in particular, may consume large quantities of food due to increased appetite, yet they often lose weight rapidly.
2. Hypoglycemia
This condition refers to a significant drop in blood glucose levels. People most prone to hypoglycemia are those with diabetes, but it can also occur in cases of liver inflammation, kidney disorders, or adrenal and pituitary gland issues. Severe hypoglycemia can cause symptoms resembling drunkenness, such as difficulty speaking and walking. Other symptoms include anxiety, irregular heartbeat, pale skin, trembling, sweating, and a tingling sensation around the mouth.
3. Lack of Sleep (Insomnia)
Not getting enough rest can affect hormones that regulate hunger. Sleep-deprived individuals often have an increased appetite and struggle to feel full. They’re also more likely to crave high-fat and high-calorie foods when fatigued.
4. Stress
When feeling anxious or stressed, the body releases a hormone called cortisol, which increases hunger. Many people under stress gravitate toward sugary or fatty foods—or both—to soothe the part of the brain associated with anxiety.
5. Dietary Habits
Filling your plate with the wrong foods can leave you feeling hungry. Protein-rich foods like lean meats, fish, and dairy products, as well as fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, help curb hunger. On the other hand, foods like pastries, white bread, canned goods, and fast food lack these nutrients, offering only “empty calories.” Consuming too much of these foods can make you feel perpetually hungry, prompting you to eat even more.
6. Medications
Certain medications can cause persistent hunger and increased appetite. Examples include:
- Antihistamines
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (a type of antidepressant)
- Steroids
- Some diabetes medications
- Antipsychotic drugs
If you notice weight gain after starting a new medication, it may be increasing your hunger. Consult your doctor if this happens.
7. Pregnancy
Many pregnant women experience a significant increase in appetite. This is the body’s way of ensuring the baby receives enough nutrients for growth. On average, women gain about 4 to 6 pounds (1.8 to 2.7 kg) during the first trimester, and about 1 pound (0.45 kg) per week in the second and third trimesters.
8. Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid gland, located in the neck, secretes hormones that regulate various body functions. If the thyroid is overactive, a condition known as hyperthyroidism, symptoms may include:
- Enlarged thyroid gland
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nervousness
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle weakness
- Feeling thirsty even after drinking water
9. Soft Drinks
Some people opt for sugar-free sodas to reduce calorie intake or lose weight. However, the artificial sweeteners in these drinks signal the body to expect calories. When the body doesn’t receive them, it triggers hunger to compensate. Sugar-free sodas can lead to hunger, headaches, intense sugar cravings, and even weight gain.
By identifying the underlying causes of persistent hunger, you can take appropriate steps to address the issue and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
