Why Am I Always Hungry: How To Stop Feeling Hungry All The Time?

All of us have experienced hunger pangs at some point or the other. However, if these pangs become a constant occurrence and interfere with your daily life you may need to take certain steps to control your hunger. Before trying to curb your hunger pangs, it is important for you to know what the possible causes of constant hunger are.

Hunger is a basic physical drive that we all experience a couple of times each day. This need is fulfilled for a while when we eat a certain amount of food. However, if you feel hungry very often in spite of getting your fill, you may have a problem at your hands.

Hunger also has an emotional and mental component, which is why we tend to eat more than normal, when we are –

  • Anxious.
  • Bored.
  • Depressed.
  • Sad.
  • Stressed.

What Does It Mean When You Constantly Feel Hungry?

If your constant hunger is caused by these factors, the problem should last for no more than a couple of days. In case the constant hunger seems to be a long-term problem, you may be suffering from a serious health condition, which could include:

  • Prader Willi Syndrome: According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, this genetic disorder is one of the leading causes of life-threatening obesity in kids.
    This condition occurs when there is a defect in the hypothalamus or that part of the brain that controls feelings of fullness and hunger. A problem in the hypothalamus will make you seek food constantly, as you experience feelings of starvation. Some of the other symptoms you may experience because of this condition include low levels of sex hormones, picking at the skin, repetitive thoughts and hoarding behavior.
  • Type-1 Diabetes: Also known as insulin-dependent diabetes, this autoimmune disorder occurs when your immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. One of the first signs of type-1 diabetes is constant hunger. Some of the other symptoms you may experience because of this condition include weight loss, increased thirst, frequent urination and blurred vision.
  • Von Gierke Disease: This inherited disease causes low levels of sugar in the body. If you are suffering from this condition, your body will not be able to break down glycogen for energy, because of lack of the required enzymes. In addition to constant hunger, this disease may cause you to experience nosebleeds, fatigue, irritability, easy bruising, puffy cheeks and a swollen belly.
  • Hyperthyroidism: This disorder causes an increased production of the metabolism-regulating hormone called thyroxine. As a result, you may experience increased appetite, in addition to weight loss, perspiration, rapid heart rate, anxiety and irritability.
  • Binge Eating: Many people across the globe suffer from eating disorders, one of which happens to be binge eating. This disorder causes you to feel hungry and reach out for food all the time.

How Can I Stop Feeling Hungry All The Time?

As you can see, some of the causes for constant hunger can be very serious and will need medical checkup. Therefore, before you try to curb or control your hunger, it is necessary to consult with your doctor and identify the cause of feeling hungry all the time.

After conducting the necessary tests, if your doctor claims that you are not suffering from any underlying health condition and that the constant hunger is probably an emotional need, you can address the problem, by following a few simple steps at home.

  • Increase your intake of water to keep your stomach full and avoid dehydration.
  • Cut down on fatty foods, as they fill you up for just a short period of time.
  • Eat a higher amount of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, because they contain fiber, which takes more time to digest, thereby keeping you full for a longer period of time.
  • Instead of reaching out for fried foods and salty snacks when you are hungry, try to eat a small piece of fruit or a vegetable.
  • Avoid eating when watching television, as it could soon develop into a habit.
  • Get an adequate amount of exercise each day.

At times, certain medication could also lead to an increase in appetite. When you visit your doctor to determine the possible causes of constant hunger, do mention all the medicines that you have been taking.