Why Am I Always Hungry? Unexplained Increased Appetite

Q: Why Am I Always Hungry? Unexplained Increased Appetite

Hello： If you experience weight gain in a short period due to overeating, the first step is to rule out whether it is caused by emotional disturbances such as excessive excitement or sadness leading to binge eating. <br>Additionally, it is important to exclude the possibility of

Recently, I have been feeling very hungry and can't seem to feel full. Is there a problem?

Recently, I've been feeling very hungry all the time.
I just finished eating, and then I'm hungry again shortly after.
I can eat a lot in a day, and my stomach feels empty constantly, as if I'm never full.
My appetite has become so excessive that it's starting to scare me.
This hasn't happened to me before, and so far, I've gained two kilograms.
My mother has diabetes, and my menstrual cycle has come after sexual activity, so it shouldn't be pregnancy, right? It also seems unlikely that it's related to development.
What could be wrong with me? Do I need to undergo any tests? Please give me some advice, doctor.
:)

Miao Miao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/06

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine

Hello: If you experience weight gain in a short period due to overeating, the first step is to rule out whether it is caused by emotional disturbances such as excessive excitement or sadness leading to binge eating.
Additionally, it is important to exclude the possibility of increased caloric needs due to a sudden increase in daily activity levels.
If these factors (including pregnancy) are ruled out and you still find yourself overeating, it is advisable to consult a family medicine physician at a hospital for assistance, temporarily disregarding the possibility of diabetes.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope the above information helps address your concerns.
Dr.
Tsai Jue-Ren, Hualien Hospital.

Reply Date: 2007/05/06

More Info

Experiencing an unexplained increase in appetite can be concerning, especially when it feels like you are constantly hungry despite having just eaten. There are several potential reasons for this phenomenon, and understanding them can help you determine the next steps to take.

Firstly, it’s important to consider physiological factors. Increased appetite can sometimes be linked to hormonal changes in the body. For instance, fluctuations in hormones such as insulin, ghrelin, and leptin can significantly impact hunger levels. Ghrelin, often referred to as the "hunger hormone," stimulates appetite, while leptin helps to regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger. If your body is producing more ghrelin or less leptin, you may feel hungrier than usual.

Another possibility is related to your diet. If your meals are low in protein or fiber, you may not feel satiated after eating. Foods rich in protein and fiber take longer to digest and can help you feel full for a longer period. Additionally, if you have recently changed your eating habits, such as consuming more processed foods or sugars, this could lead to rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, causing increased hunger.

Psychological factors can also play a significant role in appetite regulation. Stress, anxiety, and depression can lead to emotional eating or a heightened sense of hunger. If you have been experiencing any emotional distress or changes in your mental health, this could be contributing to your increased appetite.

Moreover, certain medical conditions can cause increased hunger. Conditions such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or even certain medications can lead to changes in appetite. Given that your mother has diabetes, it might be worth considering whether there is a familial predisposition to metabolic issues that could be affecting you as well.

In your case, since you mentioned that you have gained weight and are feeling unusually hungry, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests to check your hormone levels, blood sugar levels, and thyroid function. This will help rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how you feel throughout the day. This can provide valuable insights into your eating patterns and help identify any triggers for your increased appetite. Additionally, focusing on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can help manage hunger levels.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s talking to a healthcare provider, a nutritionist, or a mental health professional, getting help can provide you with the tools and strategies to better understand and manage your appetite.

In summary, while an increase in appetite can be concerning, it can stem from a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, dietary habits, psychological influences, or underlying medical conditions. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the cause and appropriate course of action.

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