Are you always thinking about your next meal? While being constantly hungry may be a sign of an underlying health problem and should be checked by a doctor if you have similar concerns, there could be other reasons too. Read on to know more.
Reasons for always feeling hungry
If you are the kind of person who is always hungry and is tempted to binge on snacks and desserts even after having a hearty meal, then your diet could be the problem.
Eating too many carbs
Is your dinner heavy? Eating a meal heavy in carbs the night before could be exactly why you are always hungry the following day. Consuming a lot of carbohydrates in one sitting results in its quick absorption into the body in the form of sugar. The spike of sugar – particularly glucose – in the blood releases a surge of insulin that stimulates body cells to use up glucose. As the sugar is eliminated from the blood, it triggers hunger and cravings for more carbs – this could be the reason for those midnight cravings!
What’s the alternative? Ditch refined carbohydrates and switch to moderate amounts of unrefined carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and quinoa, combined with lean protein and a good serving of non-starchy veggies like broccoli.
Your diet lacks essential nutrients
Is your protein and fibre intake adequate? For years now, experts have been suggesting you to include protein and fibre in your diet – the reason is that these essential nutrients are incredibly filling and can satiate your hunger pangs by keeping your tummy full for hours. Eggs, poultry meat, soy products, nuts and seeds, dairy products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains – these are the healthiest source of protein and fibre.
What’s the alternative? Instead of eating crackers made from refined flour, grab a whole grain cracker when you feel hungry. Slice up an apple and relish it with peanut butter on top to get a full serving of healthy fats, fibre and protein.
Leaving a long gap in between meals
Is the gap between your lunch and dinner over 5 hours? Many people follow a strict diet as a weight loss strategy and end up starving themselves for long hours – this could be another reason for always feeling hungry. When you deprive yourself of eating for quite a long time or leave huge gaps in between meals, your body keeps sending signals that it has been too long since you have eaten.
What’s the alternative? Instead of getting three square meals, stick to frequent smaller meals every three to four hours, depending on your meal plan and level of activity. Keep some dry fruits, a small pack of yogurt and healthy snacks close by, as you might need to munch on these every few hours.
It is normal to feel hungry at times after going through a rough day at work or right after doing some high-intensity activity. However, if it feels like you are always hungry and on a lookout to binge on snacks but cannot figure out why, then you should consider the above points.
With the right kind of foods and healthy eating habits, there is a good chance your constant hunger could finally subside.
Source: PharmEasy
