If there is such a common occurrence as 'road rage', there is also a household occurrence called 'food rage' where the word 'hungry' becomes directly proportional to the word 'angry'
Getting agitated when hunger pangs set in is definitely normal as it is a natural survival mechanism, according to scientists. When one starts to fume over the need to suffice the longing to fill in the stomach, then one becomes 'hangry'.
Brenda Bustillos, a registered dietician with the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Public Health explains, "What's interesting is hanger is actually a survival mechanism," explains
She adds: "The amount of glucose available for the brain declines as more time passes between meals."
"Food is important because when glucose levels become too low, our brain triggers the release of stress hormones."
When Glucose, the fuel for the brain runs low, that is when the nerve impulse signal the body that it is starving. Since there is a depletion of glucose in the brain, concentration and focus becomes difficult hence tasks becomes arduous and a feeling of frustration and anger sets in.
The dietician further adds that limitations in self-control impulses is linked to the lack of glucose in the brain which is a result of lack of food intake,
"When we're unable to receive food, we experience a physiological response that creates frustration," she noted. "In a brain lacking glucose, it's harder to control signs of anger.
"Acute bouts of hunger trigger the release of stress hormones, which makes it harder to manage our anger and irritability."
Unbelievably enough, to keep "Hanger" at bay, snacking is the ultimate solution. It is advised by the experts to have small nutrient-loaded portions of fruits, vegetables and nuts. The ion-between snacks will keep the tummy from rumbling and will definitely keep the person from grumbling.
However, experts also suggest not to over-do the snacks and to stick to healthy eating habits.
"Many people engage in behaviors they can control when dealing with stressful situations," she added. "Most often this translates into unhealthy stress eating."
