"Think You're Hungry? It Could Be "Fake" Hunger"

Excerpts From Glamour

Think You're Hungry? It Could Be "Fake" Hunger

By Sara Gio

If you ate a balanced meal or substantial snack less than 2 hours ago and you think you're hungry, you're not--you're either a.) thirsty, or b.) restless/emotional.

*Hunger Due to Eating the Wrong Food:

"Symptoms include craving high sugar foods or feeling 'hungry' soon after eating a meal," she says. "If you just had a big meal that is high in simple carbohydrates and did not contain fiber, protein or healthy fat, all of which help provide a sense of satiety, you may have experienced a drop in blood sugar.

In this case, have a healthy snack, such as a piece of fresh fruit and nuts, or cottage cheese or celery and peanut butter or 1/2 of a sandwich on whole grain bread)."

*Hunger Due to Sleepiness:

According to Blumenthal, two major hormones, leptin and ghrelin, affect and control sensations of hunger and fullness. Daytime fatigue may lead people to overeat (often, high sugar, nutrient poor foods) in an attempt to get an extra surge of energy. It provides only temporary relief, which is soon followed by a crash in energy levels and a resurgence of “hunger” leading to more snacking, increased sugar cravings, etc….a vicious cycle.

If you are feeling mid-afternoon hunger pains, try: a brisk 10 min walk around the block (fresh air helps, as does exercise, to boost alertness and increase circulation), a cup of green tea (high in antioxidants and low in caffeine relative to coffee), a 1/4 cup of almonds and a small apple (high in protein, healthy fat and carbohydrates, low in sugar, and a good source of magnesium and fiber). Even taking a few deep breaths can help curb fatigue!"