When trying to take control over a poor diet, lots of people try to ignore their hunger, thinking that it might help them to form healthy habits.
Meanwhile, you should differentiate cravings and real hunger, because these two things need different approaches.
Let's find out more about them.
Real Hunger
Real hunger is your body's way of signaling that it needs nourishment and energy.
It typically occurs when your stomach is empty and your blood sugar levels drop.
Low Energy
When you don't eat when you're truly hungry, your energy levels can plummet.
You may feel weak, fatigued, and find it hard to concentrate on tasks.
Irritability
Hunger can affect your mood. You might become irritable, easily frustrated, or short-tempered. This is sometimes referred to as "hangry."
Overeating Later
Ignoring real hunger can lead to overeating when you finally do eat.
Your body, in a state of hunger, may crave high-calorie, quick-energy foods, leading to unhealthy eating choices.
Nutrient Deficiency
Prolonged hunger can result in a lack of essential nutrients because you're not providing your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to function correctly.
Cravings
Cravings are different from real hunger. They are more about the desire for specific foods rather than a genuine need for sustenance.
Taste and Pleasure
Cravings are often associated with specific tastes or textures that you enjoy.
For example, you might crave something sweet, salty, or crunchy.
Emotional Triggers
Emotions, such as stress, sadness, or happiness, can trigger cravings. People often turn to comfort foods when they're feeling a particular emotion.
Conclusion
In summary, it's generally a good idea to pay attention to real hunger and respond by eating a balanced meal or snack.
However, when it comes to cravings, it's important to differentiate between the desire for a specific food and actual hunger.
