Diet & Weight Management

Health

Why Am I Always Hungry?

Your body relies on food for energy, so it's normal to feel hungry if you don't eat for a few hours. But if your stomach has a constant rumble, even after a meal, something could be going on with your health.

"Polyphagia" is the medical term used for extreme hunger, and it can be a sign that you need to check in with your doctor.

Could It Be Diabetes?

Your body turns the sugar in food into fuel called glucose. But when you have diabetes, glucose can't reach your cells. Your body pees it out instead and tells you to eat more.

People who have Type 1 diabetes, in particular, may take in large amounts of food and still lose weight.

In addition to a spike in appetite, other symptoms of diabetes include:

Extreme thirst
Blurry vision
Cuts and bruises that take a long time to heal
Tingling or pain in your hands or feet
Fatigue

Could It Be Low Blood Sugar?

Hypoglycemia is what you have when the glucose in your body drops to very low levels. People with diabetes are most at risk, but other health problems also can cause it. They include hepatitis, kidney disorders, and issues with your adrenal or pituitary glands.

In severe cases, people with hypoglycemia may seem drunk. They may slur their words and have trouble walking. Other symptoms are:

Anxiety
Feeling like your heart is skipping a beat
Pale skin
Shaking
Sweating
Tingling around the mouth

Could It Be a Lack of Sleep?

If you don't get enough rest, it can affect the hormones in your body that control hunger. People who are sleep deprived have a bigger appetite and find it harder to feel full. You're also more likely to crave high-fat, high-calorie foods when you're tired.

Other symptoms of sleep deprivation are: