How to curb constant hunger?

KayButterfly
KayButterfly Posts: 7 Member
I've started working out and lifting a lot lately (past two months) and let me tell you, I'm always hungry. In between meals, I try to snack on healthy but nutritious items. Is that hunger a result my muscles calling for food? Because I'm trying to build and they are growing? -_-

Replies

  • usmcmp
    usmcmp Posts: 21,219 Member
    It could be that you need to adjust your macros. Macros can make a difference with how long you feel full and with recovery. What are your current macros set to?
  • KayButterfly
    KayButterfly Posts: 7 Member
    They are currently set to 2790 (as of recently).
  • psuLemon
    psuLemon Posts: 38,427 MFP Moderator
    Thats calories. How much protein, fats and carbs are you taking in? Also, how much fiber?
  • Rammer123
    Rammer123 Posts: 679 Member
    If you're trying to build and you're feeling hungry, I'd say you should be eating more.
  • Jthanmyfitnesspal
    Jthanmyfitnesspal Posts: 3,522 Member
    Eat adequate, but not too much, protein. Maybe 25% max. (Even that is higher than you need, imho.) Then get plenty of high quality fat from olive oil, nuts, cheese, butter, coconut oil, etc. up to 60% or more. Rest should be whole grain or other quality carb.

    But: I was always hungry when I lifted a lot. Comes with the territory.

    Best of luck!
  • KayButterfly
    KayButterfly Posts: 7 Member
    Protein - 140g | Fats - 93g | Carbs - 349g | Fiber - 25g
    Thanks everyone for your feedback. I really appreciate it!
  • joeybrid
    joeybrid Posts: 65 Member
    Eat more if your goal is to gain muscle. There will always be fat gain associated with muscle gain for your average person. If you're seeing results at the current numbers then keep them he same. If you don't then up them. You're macros will increase as you gain muscle btw
  • KayButterfly
    KayButterfly Posts: 7 Member
    joeybrid wrote: »
    Eat more if your goal is to gain muscle. There will always be fat gain associated with muscle gain for your average person. If you're seeing results at the current numbers then keep them he same. If you don't then up them. You're macros will increase as you gain muscle btw

    Noted with thanks. I'm starting to see small results. I know it's going to take patience and time.
  • pigheaded
    pigheaded Posts: 3,083 Member
    For me it's carbs that make me hungry. If I eat to many I get famished the next day. But I know they are just false hunger pains. I try to keep my carbs low. You didnt say if you are taking any pre or post workout shakes. A post workout protein shake may help curb your hunger pains. Don't forget lots of water. Water is another good way to reduce hunger pains. Based on your macros, I'm guessing your doing the 6 small meals every three to four hours...if not, you may want to look at spreading your meals out to help in maintaining satiety.
  • KayButterfly
    KayButterfly Posts: 7 Member
    pigheaded wrote: »
    For me it's carbs that make me hungry. If I eat to many I get famished the next day. But I know they are just false hunger pains. I try to keep my carbs low. You didnt say if you are taking any pre or post workout shakes. A post workout protein shake may help curb your hunger pains. Don't forget lots of water. Water is another good way to reduce hunger pains. Based on your macros, I'm guessing your doing the 6 small meals every three to four hours...if not, you may want to look at spreading your meals out to help in maintaining satiety.

    I started taking protein shakes one week ago, post workout. Yes, water is very vital (I have no issues here). You're correct with the small meals.
  • pigheaded
    pigheaded Posts: 3,083 Member
    Sounds like your doing all the right things. Make sure you have your TDEE set properly and if looking to gain muscle add 500 calories, lose fat drop 500 calories. May take your body awhile to adjust to the new diet.
  • johnnylakis
    johnnylakis Posts: 812 Member
    Is that hunger a result my muscles calling for food? Because I'm trying to build and they are growing? -_-
    HELL YEAH!

  • KayButterfly
    KayButterfly Posts: 7 Member
    pigheaded wrote: »
    Sounds like your doing all the right things. Make sure you have your TDEE set properly and if looking to gain muscle add 500 calories, lose fat drop 500 calories. May take your body awhile to adjust to the new diet.

    Noted. Thank you!
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