constantly hungry

Posts: 2,812
1/31/13 2:44 A

I have the same problem - with increased cardio AND with increased strength training.

Staying at the high end of my protein range helps. Also lots of whole grains. I do better eating something every 2 hours or so.

Some of my 'go to' filling snacks:
apple w/peanut butter
Greek yogurt w/fresh fruit and walnuts
whole grain bread w/cheese
veggies w/hummus
Canadian bacon
baked sweet potato

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Posts: 905
1/31/13 1:53 A

M@L makes a very good point about the body actually calling for specific nutrients rather than simply more calories.

I've noticed that since I've upped the intensity of my workouts, incorporating some HIIT and heavy lifting, my body has been literally crying out for protein - and I take it in the form of nuts and seeds. I also add soya yoghurt to the nuts and seeds, making a very satisfying post-workout snack - small and manageable to eat, and very nutritious.

current weight: 108.0

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Posts: 12,417
1/30/13 8:19 P

Hunger is often a signal that the body is seeking specific nutrients, rather than more calories. Exercise in particular can drive your protein requirements higher, as it needs the raw materials to carry out more repairs (and the impact from running is definitely part of this).

So where you had been meeting your protein requirements before, you may no longer be meeting your increased requirements.

Pre-planning a post-workout snack can help refuel your body, and avoid feeling ravenous later.

M@L

current weight: 178.0

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Posts: 854
1/30/13 3:41 P

I've had the exact same problem (increase in appetite plus vegetarian). I've found protein is the best. After a run, I drink two cups of skim milk with a scoop of whey protein powder. This helps (somewhat) cut down on the "I'm always hungry!" feeling. Plus continuing to eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies to fill up with fiber

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Posts: 268
1/30/13 2:35 P

That's actually really good advice you got from Jen. I would add this...

Vegetarian diets tend to metabolize quickly because of the water content of vegetables. I would add some bulk to my meal plans. I'm not a big fan of supplements, but you could try some whey protein powder mixed with milk (either cow, soy or almond) after your workout with your post-exercise meal.

Also try adding more grains and nuts, unless of course you have a gluten sensitivity or an allergy to nuts. I eat almonds, peanuts and pistachios in pre-measured quantities throughout the day.

Good luck.

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1/30/13 2:14 P

Why not eat more? Are your weeklyl calories burn accurate on your Fitness set up page? If small meals and snacks aren't working for you, I'd experiment with eating larger meals, or a larger meal or snack around your workout. If you're hungry directly after a workout, but not near a meal time, try having a banana with some peanut butter to see if that helps. If your hunger has increased with your workouts, my best guess is that your body needs more fuel.

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Posts: 3
1/30/13 1:49 P

I noticed since I started the C25K program about a month ago my appetite has grown significantly. I've been exercising on a consistent basis for a few years mainly using stationary cardio equipment & sometimes walking outside. I've never really ran before but feel like it is going well and I'd like to keep it up. I try to eat small meals and snacks throughout the day and drink a ton of water but still feel incredibly hungry especially after a tough workout. I'm a vegetarian and do make sure that I get enough protein from other sources rather then meat.

Has anyone else had this problem? Any advice on how to curb my appetite?