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It's normal to have days when you're feeling ravenous, but what if you're constantly waiting for the next meal and snacking in between?
Appetites vary from person to person, but there could be a real reason you just never feel full. We take a look at the possibilities here.
It could actually be down to the food you're eating, particularly if you're consuming a lot of refined products. Anything that causes your blood sugar to peak will inevitably end in a crash, meaning you feel even hungrier a short while afterwards. Cut out the processed goods and stay away from things such as white bread and sugary snacks. Refined foods seem misleadingly satisfying but wholegrains and food containing monounsaturated fats are tons better at keeping you full.
Try pre-preparing your snacks for the day so they're easy to reach for at the office or in lectures. Think along the lines of rye bread with avocado, a handful of nuts or a boiled egg.
It could also be that you simply have a fast metabolism. While this can be a good thing in terms of keeping the weight off, it also means you'll be much hungrier than those with a slower metabolism. Aim to increase your calorie intake by around 150 calories a day and ensure these come in the form of fruit and veg and other wholesome foods. Hopefully you'll be able to quieten your stomach without eating excessively.
Or maybe you're not REALLY hungry. Many of us eat when bored or down, leading to unnecessary food consumption and expanding waistlines. If you're constantly ravenous and your weight is creeping up, you might need to reassess how real your need for food is. Keep a log of when you're most peckish throughout the day. If it's during quiet periods at work or while you're waiting for your partner to get home, it's probably boredom. Drink a large glass of water or a cup of herbal tea, then try and get on with something else.
Of course if you're seriously worried about your weight or eating habits, make an appointment with your GP and they can test your hormone levels and for any other health issues.
