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Jan 23, 2023 · Polyphagia (hyperphagia) is a feeling of extreme, insatiable hunger. It’s a common sign of diabetes, but it can have other medical causes, such as hyperthyroidism and atypical depression. It’s important to see a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing polyphagia.
- Prediabetes and Diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is a medical condition where the body may not produce enough insulin, or as in the case of type 2 diabetes, doesn’t utilize the insulin that already exists efficiently.
- Hypoglycemia. After eating, glucose will enter your bloodstream and make its way into the cells with the help of insulin. You may experience hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, for many reasons, including not consuming adequate carbohydrates.
- Hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar levels, may occur when your body is unable to produce or use insulin efficiently or when glucose production and release into the bloodstream exceeds your body’s capacity to mobilize and metabolize it.
- Hyperthyroidism. Thyroid dysfunctions may have significant effects on body weight and appetite. The thyroid interacts with the hypothalamus and other endocrine centers through the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis to regulate food intake and energy output.
- Diabetes. Your body turns the sugar in food into fuel called glucose. But when you have diabetes, glucose can't reach your cells. Your body pees it out instead and tells you to eat more.
- Low Blood Sugar. Hypoglycemia is what you have when the glucose in your body drops to very low levels. It’s a common concern for people with diabetes, but other health problems can cause it, too.
- Lack of Sleep. Not getting enough rest can affect the hormones in your body that control hunger. People who are sleep-deprived have a bigger appetite and find it harder to feel full.
- Stress. When you're anxious or tense, your body releases a hormone called cortisol. This amps up your feeling of hunger. Many people under stress also crave foods high in sugar, fat, or both.
Dec 18, 2023 · The answer could be any of 14 reasons—some minor, some serious, some easily remedied, and others more difficult to fix. This article details those reasons, plus signs of extreme hunger and when you need to talk to a healthcare provider.
- Adrienne Dellwo
Feb 10, 2024 · Polyphagia, also known as hyperphagia, is an intense hunger that is not satisfied by eating. The craving can be for food in general, or a specific food, and can lead to eating more food than the body requires. It is a symptom associated with several conditions, most especially diabetes.
Jan 25, 2024 · Polyphagia or hyperphagia is the term for extreme hunger that may not be satisfied. Many medical conditions can cause polyphagia, and the underlying cause must be treated for it to resolve.
Jul 14, 2022 · Why is my hunger so extreme? Extreme feelings of hunger can be caused by several things including problems with your thyroid, blood sugar levels, or a stressful lifestyle with not enough sleep. What is insatiable hunger a symptom of?
