Why do I get hungry at night?
There are several reasons why you may feel hungry in the later hours. One reason is that the body's natural clock—AKA circadian rhythm, can cause fluctuations in hunger and appetite throughout the day.
Here are ten potential reasons why you may feel hungry at night:
Not eating enough during the day: If you do not consume enough calories during the day, your body may signal that it needs more fuel at night.
Skipping meals: If you skip meals or go too long between meals, your body may start to crave food to make up for the missing nutrients.
Blood sugar fluctuations: If your blood sugar levels drop too low, you may feel hungry at night.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation, can affect appetite and cause you to feel hungry at night.
Dehydration: Being dehydrated can cause hunger-like sensations, so make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.
Not getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep can affect hunger hormones and lead to increased appetite at night.
Boredom: If you are feeling bored and have nothing else to do, you may turn to food for entertainment or comfort, leading to increased hunger at night.
Stress: Stress and anxiety can lead to emotional eating, which can cause increased appetite at night.
Medications: Some medications, such as steroids and antidepressants, can cause changes in appetite and lead to hunger at night.
Poor food choices earlier in the day: If you have eaten unhealthy or processed foods earlier in the day, you may feel hungry at night because your body is not getting the nutrients it needs.
If you are experiencing hunger at night and it is disrupting your sleep quality or causing you to steer towards unhealthy foods, there are some strategies you can try to help regulate your appetite! One option is to try eating regular, balanced meals throughout the day to help keep your blood sugar levels stable and reduce the likelihood of feeling hungry at night. Also include physical activity, lots of water, find healthy ways to manage stress, and avoiding boredom by engaging in activities you love.
If it's creating an ongoing pattern and negatively impacting you—it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for further guidance & support.