By: Echoda Daniel

As a student, one of the issues you may have experienced is frequent hunger. That is, there was a point in the course of your studies when you found out you easily become hungry again shortly after you have eaten. It has nothing to do with whether or not you have eaten. Among other things, the situation can make it difficult for you to focus and concentrate on school work. And whereas the general solution to hunger is to eat food, during such times in school, food appears to ‘disappear’ from the stomach as quickly as it goes in, and one is left wondering where it goes.

One of the primary reasons for this is poor sleep and chronic stress. This is often the case, especially when assignments begin to pile up, and tests or exams are around the corner, requiring TDB and MTN. During those times, the body experiences stress and does not get enough rest. It can disrupt your hormones and increase your appetite, making you go hungry even after eating.

To combat this issue, make sure to prioritize getting enough sleep each night and engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises. You may also benefit from incorporating more relaxation techniques into your daily routine.

Going further, frequent hunger may also be a result of a diet that is deficient in protein. Protein, as you may be aware, is an essential macronutrient that is necessary for building and repairing tissues in the body. It is also a key component in regulating appetite and promoting feelings of fullness. Hence, you may feel hungry more often without enough of it in your diet and have difficulty controlling your cravings. As a remedy for this, make sure you include a variety of protein-rich foods such as meats, fish, eggs, and milk in your diet.

In the same vein, a lack of fiber or fat in your diet can also contribute to frequent hunger. These nutrients take longer to digest and promote feelings of fullness, so without them, you may be more likely to experience hunger pangs throughout the day. To increase your intake of fiber, focus on consuming more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, all of which are accessible in and around UI environs.

Certain medications and illnesses can also cause frequent hunger. For example, some antidepressants and antipsychotics can increase appetite, as can conditions like diabetes and hypoglycemia. If you suspect that a medication or underlying health condition may be contributing to your hunger, it is important that you go see the University’s healthcare service for guidance and support.

Apart from the aforementioned factors, your eating habits can also play a significant role in how hungry you feel. Consuming a lot of liquid foods, for instance, can make you feel hungrier than if you ate more solid foods. This is because liquid foods are less satiating than solid foods and are digested more quickly. Focus on eating more solid, whole foods. This could include meals that incorporate protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates, such as a salad with chicken and vegetables, as mentioned earlier.

Finally, the rate at which you eat may also contribute to your hunger levels. Eating too quickly can cause you to feel hungry again shortly after a meal, while eating slowly and mindfully can help you feel more satisfied and reduce your appetite. To practice mindful eating, try to eat in a quiet, distraction-free environment and take the time to savor each bite. Pay attention to your food’s taste, texture, and aroma, and take breaks between bites to give your body time to register feelings of fullness.

The list is by no means exhaustive, and despite the fact that there may be many causes of frequent hunger as a student, it is essential to address the issue to avoid further complications. It is crucial to remember that a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest are essential for overall well-being, and addressing frequent hunger can be a step towards achieving a healthier lifestyle. With the right adjustments to your eating habits, lifestyle, and possibly seeking medical advice, you can overcome frequent hunger and be better equipped to focus and concentrate on your studies.