The Reason Extreme Hunger Leads to Being 'Hangry'

The irritability we feel when delaying meals is so widespread that it has its own term: 'hangry,' blending 'hungry' and 'angry.' Despite its common occurrence, few understand the scientific explanation behind this phenomenon.

Experiencing 'hanger' doesn’t indicate a naturally quick temper or impatience—even the most relaxed individuals can feel anger due to hunger. According to Brenda Bustillos, a dietitian at Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Public Health, 'Hanger is essentially a survival response.'

Bustillos clarifies that hanger is the brain's signal that glucose levels are dropping and need replenishment: 'As the gap between meals widens, the brain's glucose supply diminishes.' She adds, 'Food plays a critical role because when glucose drops too low, the brain activates stress hormones.'

Hanger serves a dual purpose: it alerts us to eat while also highlighting the challenge of emotional regulation when glucose levels drop. Bustillos explains, 'A glucose-deprived brain struggles to suppress anger. Hunger-induced stress hormones amplify irritability, making emotional control more difficult.'

In the grand scheme, hanger might be beneficial. 'For animals, hunger is a survival cue,' Paul Currie, a psychology professor at Reed College, shared with Time. 'Feeling anxious, irritable, or distracted until you eat is a natural response to fulfill that need.'

However, distinguishing hanger from other emotional states like anxiety or frustration can be tricky. A 2014 study from Ohio State University revealed that couples were more prone to arguments in the evening when their blood sugar was low. Additionally, according to The Huffington Post, researchers are exploring whether low glucose levels could contribute to aggressive behavior.

The solution to hanger is straightforward: eat something. For those experiencing frequent hanger despite regular meals, Bustillos recommends nutrient-rich snacks: 'Mindful eating of small, healthy portions throughout the day can help manage hanger. Building smart habits can prevent these unpleasant symptoms.'