8 Surprising Reasons Why You Are Hungry

Do you often walk around the kitchen just an hour after lunch, looking for something to eat, a more hearty snack, or just a hearty dessert?

Do you have days when you spend hours on Netflix and realize that even though you ate a delicious dinner and felt full half an hour ago, you're hungry again? You are not alone! We have found some explanations for the moments when we suddenly feel hungry - read on and find out what to do.

Our favorite movies and series

Unfortunately, this is true: the screens of our TVs and laptops do nothing but promote mindless eating, which means that we eat without realizing that we are eating and, of course, without getting tired.

We are very concerned about the characters in our favorite series and we forget that we eat, especially in the tense moments of the series or movie, which increase our adrenaline and seem to require a snack or two. Instead of eating while watching TV, you better take a break and enjoy the taste of your favorite dish - we guarantee that you will not have any cravings in the next few hours!

You are not hungry, you are thirsty

Did you know that when you're hungry, you're often dehydrated? We simply confuse the signals of thirst sent by the brain with those of hunger. A simple trick to avoid overeating and staying hydrated during the day is to drink a large glass of water before and after each meal.

Fatigue and lack of sleep

When you are not sleeping well or you are very tired because of the work schedule, your body needs more energy (to read calories) to function normally. In addition, there is a risk that, due to a chaotic schedule, you will run away from meals and always at another time.

Statistics show that if you sleep a minimum of 7 hours a night and try to go to bed half an hour earlier than usual, you will be more rested and your cortisol level (responsible for stress and hunger) in your body will it was dropping considerably. The outcome? fewer cravings and a better-organized diet.

Low-fat food

Although it may seem like your ally in the fight against extra pounds, low-fat food is not necessarily healthy and should not be consumed in excess. Protein-rich meals are not desirable either, as your body needs good fats (natural oils, nuts, dairy) but also protein (meat, eggs, legumes, soy) to maintain a healthy muscle mass.

So, avoid "diet" foods that are low in essential nutrients and rich in refined carbohydrates, in favor of healthy and filling snacks: how about a slice of wholemeal toast with avocado and hummus, ideal for the moments when you are hunger?

A sweet breakfast

Breakfast is a very important meal - it can either make or break your day.

Why? Because once the blood sugar level starts to drop - very early because the processed carbohydrates digest very quickly - the feeling of hunger will reappear, and you will have to either eat breakfast again or go hungry. We recommend a balanced, protein-based breakfast, such as a vegetable omelet or chia pudding, prepared the night before.

Gum

Have you ever chewed gum and suddenly heard your stomach make awkward noises, even though you ate a while ago? This is because our stomachs are programmed to receive food in a short time when chewing: chewing gum, therefore, stimulates the appetite when you have no intention of eating.

What can you do? You better prepare a soft drink with plain or cold mineral water, a few mint leaves and lemon slices, cucumber, orange, or just about any fruit you want - in addition, you can not stay dehydrated and you are no longer hungry for a certain period!

The people around you

… Or more precisely, the aunt who always cooks in excess and always insists on eating more. Or your girlfriend when you go out for brunch. Or your boyfriend - you get the idea. We know you don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, but it's not okay to be persuaded to eat for no reason, no matter how often. Take your heart in your teeth and tell the person that you are already full, that you have no appetite, or if you have already tried and it doesn't work, suggest that you go for a walk or a movie next time, instead of a restaurant.

Nostalgia

It sounds weird, but you must have eaten something, too, recently, just for the sake of reliving pleasant memories or to alleviate emotional suffering (as you did in high school, with chocolate ice cream, you know?).

Similarly, if you were raised in a family that did not leave the restaurant without ordering ten appetizers, main course, side course, and dessert, this may also translate into your current eating behavior. Experts recommend finding other methods of reward or consolation, and not using food for emotional purposes: go to a manicure or go out to a concert with your best friend. Alternatively, when you feel the need for sweets, you are hungry and you can't help it, choose the healthier options: dark chocolate and unsweetened tea, for example.