Excess Hunger: Causes and Cures

              Many disorders, drugs, and situations can induce excess hunger. Some of the more common causes include:

              A lack of sleep (from too much ghrelin, which stimulates hunger; also cravings for high-calorie foods).

              Diabetes (glucose can’t get into some cells). May be accompanied by excess thirst, increased urination, fatigue, blurred vision, poor healing.

              Stress (from increased cortisol; causes cravings for high-calorie foods). Other stress symptoms are fatigue, headaches, sleep problems and being more easily angered.

              Medications including antihistamines for allergies, SSRI antidepressants, prednisone. antipsychotic drugs and medications for diabetes.

              Diets low in protein, fiber, and fat (don’t stay full as long). Carbohydrates increase insulin and that can drop the blood sugar too low, causing rebound hunger.

              Low blood sugar/glucose (hypoglycemia) from prolonged fasting, hepatitis, as a side effect of diabetes medications, and endocrine diseases. Usually accompanied by shakiness, sweating, confusion and/or anxiety.

              Hyperthyroidism (glucose is broken down to quickly). Usually also causes nervousness, heart pounding, weakness, and sweating.

              Artificial sweeteners cause abnormal hunger.  

              Dehydration can be misinterpreted as hunger; accompanied by a dry mouth, urinating less often, and darker urine.

            Boredom and emotional upset can also lead to false hunger.

            Normal hunger is often accompanied by a growling stomach, decreased energy, shakiness, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue. To respond appropriately to hunger, eat when you are hungry but don’t wait until you are dizzy, weak, or shaky. If you wait until you are ravenous, it’s more likely you’ll overeat. Stop eating when you are satisfied but not uncomfortable. Focus on lean protein, high fiber foods and healthy fats when dieting.

References:

Booth, S. Medically reviewed by Ratini, Dr. M. “Why Am I Always Hungry?” Web MD, 9/13/2023.

MacPherson, R., medically reviewed by Habtemariam, A., RDN. “How to Recognize Hunger Signs.” VeryWellFit, content updated as of 4/14/2022.