Constant Hunger in Diabetes:

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What causes Type 2 diabetes
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Increased hunger is a dominant sign of Diabetes. Constant hunger makes us unable to concentrate on what we are doing hence finding a proper hunger management way is very beneficial for Diabetics.

***Hunger should not be confused with appetite. “Hunger is more physiological, whereas appetite is more psychological”

Distinguishing the two can help you know whether it is hunger talking, or your brain only imagining it needs food!!

Before we explain the proper management of constant hunger in Diabetes, let’s learn how Diabetes causes increased hunger first;

***In uncontrolled diabetes where blood glucose levels remain abnormally high (hyperglycemia), glucose from the blood cannot enter the cells – due to either a lack of insulin or insulin resistance – so the body can’t convert the food you eat into energy. This lack of energy causes an increase in hunger. If hunger is accompanied by high blood glucose levels, it may help to take part in activity, such as walking, as this can help to reduce blood sugar levels hence the hunger

*** It can also be caused by abnormally low blood glucose (hypoglycemia). If blood glucose readings fall below 4 mmol/l, the body usually responds by releasing stored glucose from the liver to raise glucose levels back to normal. However, people with diabetes that take medication such as insulin and sulfonylureas are at risk of developing a severe form of hypoglycemia and should therefore treat low blood glucose levels by eating something sweet as soon as hypoglycemia is recognized.

*** Managing constant hunger in Diabetes:

-Prevent stomach from being empty (Refer to our post on high-fibre, slow release carbs diet)

-Eat slowly and try to drink water while eating

– Food is not just fuel, but also a source of pleasure and comfort. With simplex foods, your stomach may be satisfied, but you may still have a strong desire to eat when you see other kinds of foods. If your meal plan is too limiting (in terms of food types, not just amounts), you may be depriving yourself of the joy of eating and the sense of satisfaction your mind and body crave

It is also important to know that it can be caused by many other factors i.e. Persistent stress, eating disorders like bulimia, a tell-tale sign of a worm infestation in the intestine, Binge eating disorder, Hyperthyroidism (raised level of thyroid hormone) or even Mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder and manic depression etc. Please consult a doctor who will examine you to check whether your hunger is a symptom of diabetes or another medical condition.

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