Are You Really Hungry? Understanding the Signs of Hunger and Thirst

It's a common misconception that feeling hungry means your body needs food. In reality, many people mistake thirst for hunger, leading them to consume unnecessary calories when all they really needed was a glass of water. So, what is the science behind feeling hungry when you're actually dehydrated?

The link between hunger and thirst is rooted in the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that regulates hunger, thirst, and other bodily functions. When you're dehydrated, your hypothalamus sends out signals that can be mistaken for hunger. This is because the same part of your brain controls both hunger and thirst, and the signals can be easily confused.

Not only that, but when you're dehydrated, your body may release a hormone called ghrelin. Ghrelin is known as the hunger hormone because it stimulates appetite and promotes fat storage. When you're dehydrated, your body may produce more ghrelin, leading you to feel hungrier than usual.

Ghrelin isn’t the only hormone that is disrupted. Dehydration also causes an increase in stress hormones, a decrease in sex hormones and ADH, and an increase in insulin resistance. Staying hydrated by drinking enough fluids throughout the day plays a really important role in being able to balance your hormones and we all know why thats important.

Dehydration can also affect your metabolism. When you're dehydrated, your metabolism slows down, which can make you feel sluggish and less likely to be active. This can lead to weight gain and a host of other health problems.

The best way to avoid mistaking thirst for hunger is to stay hydrated throughout the day. The general rule of thumb is to drink at least 2L water per day, but this can vary depending on your activity level, climate, and other factors. If you're not sure how much water you should be drinking, I recommend connecting with a naturopath who can help you to work out whats best for you.

Feeling hungry when you're actually dehydrated is a common occurrence due to the signals sent by the hypothalamus, the release of ghrelin, and the slowing of metabolism. By staying hydrated, you can avoid mistaking thirst for hunger and maintain a healthy relationship with food.

If you would like to book a discovery call to find out if working with a naturopath is right for you, feel free to book a free discovery call.