Why Am I Hungry in the Morning?

Waking up with hunger pangs can be unpleasant. If the pains are severe, it can be frightening. Morning hunger may indicate that your digestive system is working properly, or it may indicate a health problem.

Normal Hunger

• When you wake in the morning, your body is in the fasting state. You have probably not eaten for 6 to 12 hours. You also have not drunk anything in that time. Your body is low on water and on the energy that it derives from food, so it is normal to feel some hunger upon waking or shortly after rising.

Metabolic Disorders

• People who have disorders, like hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, syndrome X or diabetes, may have a different kind of morning hunger. Syndrome X or metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that can lead to increased risk of serious diseases. One of its hallmarks is insulin resistance. Hypoglycemia can cause severe hunger that can lead to uncontrolled eating. It may be accompanied by a craving for sweets. If you have one of these metabolic disorders and feel abnormally hungry upon waking, check your blood sugar. Problems controlling blood sugar should be reported to your doctor.

Hyperthyroid

• Some people with a thyroid disorder, especially those with overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), report feeling extreme hunger and may eat to excess.

Other Causes

• Hunger may be caused by anxiety or tension, according to the book, "Dr. Bernstein's Diabetes Solution," and by thirst or dehydration, according to the book, "Your Body's Many Cries for Water."