Challenge Tips

Did you know your body communicates with you beyond words? It talks to you daily through hunger cues — physiological or sensory signals indicating the need for nourishment and sustenance.

Learning your body's hunger signals is like deciphering the Morse code of your well-being — each cue is a distinct dot or dash guiding you to what your body needs. By recognizing and understanding certain signals, you gain more control over your eating habits.

So, what exactly is a hunger signal? It could be:

• A growling stomach: The classic sign. If your stomach is growling, it's time to eat.
• Low energy: Feeling lethargic or low on energy might indicate your body needs nourishment.
• Headaches: Sometimes, a headache can be a signal of hunger. Before reaching for pain relief, try a healthy snack.
• Mood changes: Irritability or sudden mood shifts could be your body's way of saying it needs fuel.
• An empty feeling: An empty or hollow feeling in your stomach suggests it's time for a nutritious meal.
• Craving specific foods: Genuine hunger often comes with a desire for a specific type of food.

Understanding these signals helps you differentiate between true hunger and emotional or environmental cues.

Before reaching for a snack or a meal, take a moment to look for hunger cues and assess whether you’re truly hungry. Understanding your body's cues empowers you to make more informed choices.

Fun fact: Did you know that thirst can sometimes masquerade as hunger? Stay hydrated to ensure your body's signals are clear.

Day 3 sneak peek: Learn the best times to eat and how often to eat throughout the day.

Missed Day 1? Catch up here. Join us on day 3.

Find this helpful? Forward this email to a nurse friend or colleague and encourage them to sign up for the challenge at hnhn.org/challenges.

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