Hunger And Appetite

[KIM]

Hi Pat;

I'm wondering if you can help me. I had my surgery on 5/19/05. I have done great so far. I am down 126 lbs. and have never been happier. My question is this. I have been feeling very hungry lately. I try to eat 3 healthy meals and then try to snack only on fruit and nutritional supplements. I am just wondering if it is common to have hunger pangs this badly. I try so hard not to pick, but I don't think I ever feel satisfied. Any input would be helpful.

Thanks Kim

[patRD]

Hi Kim, Thanks for posting your question on the website. I guess the first thing I would think about is if your hunger is true stomach hunger or is it mouth hunger (emotional). Become aware of when you feel this hunger(time of the day , whats going on , emotional reactions). When you finish that investigation you may consider adding protein to your meals or snacks. When you add protein or some fat to a meal or snack it will keep you feeling full for a longer period of time. Examples might be a few nuts, cheese, soy nuts, eggs. Carbohydrates (for example fruit) are digested quickly(in about 30 minutes) and then your stomach will be hungry again.
This is a difficult topic to write about in short but I hope that you see where I am going. Pat