True hunger is physical and arises when your body actually needs nourishment. For example, you might feel a growling stomach, low energy levels, or lightheadedness when you’re truly hungry. These are signs that your body needs food and should eat something healthy. True hunger generally comes on gradually over several hours. So, it’s probably not true hunger if you want food shortly after a meal. This is especially true if you’re craving specific foods, such as those high in sugar or fat.

Cravings or false hunger are triggered by emotional factors, such as boredom, stress, anxiety, depression, or even happiness. Foods high in sugar or fat are especially likely to cause cravings. So if you want these types of foods even when you’re not hungry, it’s probably a craving.

Cravings can be difficult to resist because they’re not based on actual hunger. You might feel like you need the food even though your body doesn’t need it. This is why it’s important to recognize the difference between true hunger and cravings.

So, let’s recap! Recognizing the difference between true hunger and cravings can help you make better food choices and avoid excessive calories. True hunger is physical and arises when your body actually needs nourishment.

For example, you might feel a growling stomach, low energy levels, or lightheadedness when you’re truly hungry. These are signs that your body needs food and that you should eat something healthy.

Cravings, however, are often triggered by emotional factors, and foods high in sugar or fat are especially likely to trigger them. So if you want these foods even when you’re not hungry, it’s probably a craving. Being mindful of the difference between the two can help ensure that you’re making the best choices for your health!