‘Hangry’ is a common feeling – and it turns out you’re not just moody
If you have ever felt so hungry that you have felt yourself become angry, then you have been ‘hangry’. As you’ve probably guessed, this combines the words ‘hungry’ and ‘angry’ – but why is this?
Experts explain that this feeling is valid – and it is not just you being rude. According to one study by psychologists at Anglia Ruskin University, there is a link between the two.
One expert said: “The results of the present study suggest that the experience of being hangry is real.” They add that this feeling is so real that “hunger was associated with greater anger and irritability, and lower pleasure, in our sample over a period of three weeks.”
Is being ‘hangry’ real and what causes it?
As confirmed by the experts, this is very much real. There re some things that could cause it – and it could be the reason you feel the way you do.
1. Is your blood sugar levels low?
One of the reasons for this could be to do with your blood sugar levels. In one study, they looked at glucose levels for 21 consecutive days which were measured each morning before breakfast and each evening before bedtime.
They explain: “Self-control requires energy, and that energy is provided in part by glucose. Glucose is made from nutritious intake that becomes converted into neurotransmitters that provide energy for brain processes.”
Looking at couples, they conclude: “If dieters have not eaten enough, they will have lower glucose levels. As a result, they may have less energy to override their irritable feelings and aggressive impulses.”
2. Has your serotonin levels dropped?
According to H&B nutritionist Chandni Vadgama: “Nosediving blood sugar causes your energy levels to drop, and your brain stops producing mood-boosting serotonin.
“This neurotransmitter (chemical molecules that carry messages from one nerve cell to the next) plays a big role in stabilising your mood, so low levels might explain your inability to focus on the good stuff during moments of blind hanger.”
3. Signals to your brain
In the same study, the scientists mention the gut hormone, ghrelin. When this is empty, it signals to the brain that we need to eat, and thus, your drive to eat increases.
The study explains: “Hunger may not be the only way that emotional and behavioural outcomes are affected; rather, it is likely that physiological and neural changes underlying feelings of hunger also induce negative emotional states.”
Is being ‘hangry’ bad?
In further research, according to Cleveland Clinic, gastroenterologist, Christine Lee, MD syas that whilst it’s not an issue that you need to see your GP about, if you are on certain medication, multiple medications, have a medical conditions, or are underweight or malnourished, you may need to keep an eye on this.
She explains: “People who have metabolic stressors, such as diabetes, pancreatic or liver disorders, and adrenal insufficiency syndromes, are particularly at risk for complications or adverse effects of low blood sugar due to inadequate counter-regulatory response.”
How to stop being ‘hangry’?
As well as getting plenty of sleep, staying hydrated and exercising regularly, Dr lee suggests eating in “several small meals throughout the day, or make sure breakfast, lunch and dinner are fulfilling and nutritious.”
She also says that if you can, avoid junk food. This is because it can cause “another sugar crash – after they first incite a sugar rush. Nutrient-rich, high-fiber foods are best and keep you feeling fuller longer.”
You can try having a healthy snack to hand to ensure you avoid this feeling. Whether you do this when out with friend or in work – see what works best for you by keeping it in your car, purse, pocket or another accessible place.
