Hangry is a real thing that can make even the most composed person break. It's that moment when your stomach grumbles so loudly that you think the world is out to get you. You have the feeling that you could eat a whole pizza by yourself and still be hungry.
What happens when you get hangry?
You may experience physical and emotional sensations that make you feel uncomfortable and annoyed when you are hangry. Here are some common things that happen when you get hangry:
- Low blood sugar levels: When you're hungry, your blood sugar levels drop, contributing to a decline in energy and mood. You may feel exhausted and sleepy as a result of this.
- Cravings: When you're hungry, your body starts to crave foods that will provide quick energy, such as sugary snacks or carbohydrates. It can make it hard to resist unhealthy foods and lead to overeating.
- Irritability: Hunger can cause the release of the hormone cortisol, which can make you feel irritable, anxious, and agitated. It can lead to mood swings and snapping at others.
- Difficulty concentrating: When you're hangry, your brain does not have the fuel it needs to function. It can make it difficult to focus and complete tasks effectively.
- Headaches: Hanger can make you feel even more uncomfortable and irritable by causing headaches and dizziness.
[Also check: Eating mindfully]
Is 'Hangry' a genuine emotion or merely an excuse? What does the research say?
Being hangry refers to the combination of being hungry and angry or irritable, which is relatively new. However, multiple studies have found that hunger can negatively impact mood, leading to irritability, frustration, and anger. Low blood sugar may be a factor, as when we go without food for a long time, our blood sugar levels drop, leading to a range of symptoms, including fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. Women may be more susceptible to being hangry than men, and our attitudes and beliefs about hunger can also influence how we experience it.
"Hangry" may not be a genuine emotion like happiness or sadness, but it is a real and valid feeling that a lot of people experience. However, it is crucial to note that being hangry should not be used as an excuse for inappropriate or harmful behavior toward others. Even when you are hangry and impatient, you must maintain control over your behaviors and reactions.
[ You may also like: Emotional eating ]
When does hanger happen?
When a person experiences hanger, it can be a complex interplay of physiological and psychological factors. Hunger can cause the body to release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. These hormones can set off the body's "fight or flight" reaction, resulting in feelings of anger, irritation, and frustration. Low blood sugar can affect the brain's ability to regulate emotions and exacerbate these negative feelings.
It is crucial to note that while the hanger is a frequent experience, it does not affect everyone in the same manner. Some people may be more susceptible to hanger due to their physiology or psychological factors, while others may be able to manage hunger more easily without experiencing negative emotions.
How can you manage hanger?
Managing hanger involves taking steps to prevent them from happening in the first place and managing the symptoms when they occur.
Some tips for managing hanger:
- Practice mindfulness: Take a few deep breaths and attempt to become more conscious of your feelings when you are impatient or furious. It can assist you to avoid hitting out at people and prevent worsening the situation.
- Plan ahead: If you know you'll be without meals for an extended time, carry nutritious snacks like almonds, fruit, or granola bars.
- Don't skip meals: One of the best ways to prevent hanger is to eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day. It will help maintain your blood sugar levels stable and prevent you from becoming overly hungry.
- Choose healthy snacks: When you need to snack, choose healthy options that will provide sustained energy and keep you feeling full. Some good alternatives include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole-grain crackers.
- Be aware of your triggers: Some conditions or emotions can trigger hanger in some people. For example, being stuck in traffic, dealing with a difficult coworker, or feeling overwhelmed by a project may all trigger feelings of irritability and hunger. Be aware of your triggers and plan by bringing snacks or taking a break when you feel overwhelmed.
- Address the underlying causes: If you are frequently experiencing hanger, it may be a sign of an underlying issue like stress, anxiety, or an eating disorder. In these cases, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional or nutritionist to address the root cause of the problem.
- Take breaks: If you are working or studying for long periods, take regular breaks to rest, stretch, and eat a healthy snack. It can help prevent feelings of hanger and keep you feeling focused and energized throughout the day.
[You may also like: Power pack food combos for snacking]
Conclusion
Feeling hangry is no joke! It can turn the sweetest person into a cranky, irritable monster. But don't worry there are methods for taming the beast within. By being prepared with healthy snacks and meals, you can keep your blood sugar levels stable and your mood in check. After all, a happy stomach equals a happy life!
And don't forget the importance of hydration, exercise, and stress management in keeping hunger pangs at bay.
