Why do I get Really Hungry When I’m Sick?

When you're feeling under the weather, you might notice that your hunger kicks up significantly. This increased appetite can be confusing, especially since you're not actively seeking to fuel up. However, it is a common and understandable bodily response during illness. Here are some key reasons why you might find yourself ravenously hungry when you're sick:

Inflammation and Cortisol

When your body is fighting an infection, it reacts with inflammation to begin the healing process. In response to this inflammatory response, your body produces cortisol—a stress hormone. Cortisol increases your blood sugar levels, leading to an increase in insulin to process the sugar into cells. This hormonal change can make you feel particularly hungry, even if you're not actively seeking food.

Increased Metabolic Rate

Your metabolic rate tends to increase when you're sick, even if you don't have a fever. This heightened metabolism means your body is working harder to fight off the infection. As a result, your body requires more energy and thus more calories. This can lead to a stronger feeling of hunger than normal.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a common side effect of illness, especially if you have a fever. As your body loses fluids, dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger. It's crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to avoid this confusion. Proper hydration can also help combat the feeling of increased hunger.

Suppressed Appetite

Sometimes, illness can suppress your appetite. When your body is battling an infection, it may naturally focus its energy on the immune system rather than digestion. However, not everyone experiences a reduced appetite during illness. Some individuals might still feel very hungry as their bodies work to fight off the infection.

It's important to listen to your body and fuel it with nutritious foods to help it recover quickly. Understanding the reasons behind your increased hunger can help you make informed decisions about what and how much to eat, ensuring that your body gets the nutrients it needs during a time of stress.

Learn More:

Why do I get really hungry when I'm sick – Yahoo! Answers Should you really feed a cold, starve a fever – CNN Does feeding a cold and starving a fever work? – Healthline

When you're sick, your body is using a lot of energy to fight off the infection or virus. This increased activity can make you burn more calories than usual, leading to a stronger feeling of hunger. It's essential to nourish your body with healthy, nutrient-dense foods to help it recover. In addition, certain illnesses can affect your appetite-regulating hormones, making you feel hungrier than usual. By understanding these factors, you can better manage your hunger and support your body's healing process.