What is hunger?

It is a psychological sensation that drives us to look for food. When our stomach is empty, we feel uncomfortable. The stomach feels raw and we can feel- and sometimes hear- it growling.

Often we think we're hungry, but don't need more food- what's going on?

Taste, smell, sight, sound, texture and thoughts can all affect our food intake. For example, you have eaten lunch, but walk past a bakery where they are making chocolate pastries. The aroma and color entice you to buy one, and you eat with gusto, even though your stomach feels full. In this case you are 'hungry' for the taste of chocolate. Images stored in our minds can also trigger a desire to eat...