Common medical conditions that may cause “early satiety” and “constant hunger” syndromes.
According to Medical News Today, when a person eats, the nerve receptors in the stomach detect when the stomach is full. These receptors then send signals to the brain, which interprets the sensation of fullness. This helps prevent overeating.
Medical conditions that can cause two opposing eating syndromes. (Image: Diabetes UK).
Feeling Full Too Quickly
However, early satiety makes the brain signal “full” even after consuming a small amount of food. This can lead to individuals with this condition not meeting their recommended daily intake, resulting in malnutrition and related health complications.
According to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, one common cause of early satiety is gastroparesis – a condition that causes food to remain in the stomach longer than normal. The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that gastroparesis often originates from diabetes, which can damage the nerves associated with the stomach.
Other potential causes include gastric ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastric outlet obstruction, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Treatment for “early satiety” will depend on the specific underlying cause. However, doctors may recommend general approaches, including eating smaller, more frequent meals, consuming pureed foods, reducing fiber and fat intake, using medications to alleviate stomach discomfort, and employing appetite stimulants.
Feeling Hungry Regardless of Food Intake
Some cases feel full despite not eating much. (Image: Tasting Table).
On the other hand, there are individuals who suffer from hyperphagia or an insatiable appetite.
Unlike the normal feeling of hunger after physical activity, hyperphagia persists even after consuming large amounts of food. Therefore, addressing the root cause of this condition is essential to avoid health issues, according to Healthline.
Hyperphagia can stem from conditions such as hypoglycemia, premenstrual syndrome, or hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive. The thyroid produces hormones that control many bodily functions, including metabolism. As a result, the feeling of hunger can increase due to elevated hormone levels.
Additionally, during times of stress, the body releases a significant amount of cortisol, which can trigger hunger. Unusual hunger can also be an emotional response, where an individual may turn to food to alleviate negative emotions.
Nutrition in the diet is also crucial. Consuming high amounts of carbohydrates and fats, such as fast food, can lead to quicker feelings of hunger due to a lack of nutrients. Experts recommend including vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and fish in the diet to ensure proper nutrition and avoid rapid hunger.
Treatment for hyperphagia typically focuses on addressing underlying causes such as diabetes and hyperthyroidism, which may be managed with medication.
Moreover, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can help control hunger. If hyperphagia is caused by psychological factors, experts recommend consulting a mental health professional for appropriate guidance.
