Question:
Is it normal to feel hungry with increased exercise?

I am almost 4 months post-op and have lost 95 lbs. I have not been committed to exercise as I should have been, so over the past 2 weeks, I have gotten very serious about daily aerobic exercising and light weight training. Physically, I feel great and can tell that it's helping, but on the flip side, I am suddenly experiencing hunger, which I haven't felt in the entire 4 months post-surgery. I exercise in the evenings, and by about an hour later, I am having hunger pains. I hope this isn't a stupid question, but is this a normal response to exercise? or do hunger pains just start to come back at around 4 months post-op? Any advice on what to do? Thanks so much!    — Mary W. (posted on July 17, 2002)

July 17, 2002
YES, its normal. I was helping a friend for awhile doing demolition, lost 10 pounds fast and gained a ravenous appetite. Increas your protein to help chill the appetite.
   — bob-haller

July 17, 2002
Congratulations on your terrific progress! Yes, exercise will stimulate a need for more calories according to my surgeon. But don't let up...exercise is also making you burn fat more efficiently. Just add small snacks that are low fat and high in protein. I often grab a little bit of grilled chicken which I keep in the fridge. There are soem in the meat case at the super market called "Shortcuts" and they are fabulous. 2-3 bites mid way between meals really help. I also eat some watermelon or grapefruit to help with additional energy calories. But at 4mos. post-op, you really need the protein. By increasing the calories just a little with small snacks(midmorning and midafternoon), you'll prevent you body from going into a "protection mode" where it tries to conserve the store fuel(fat) and it can keep right on burning it up. Good Luck and keep up the great workouts! Teri
   — Teri D.

July 17, 2002
I've been exercising 5 days a week since 2 months after surgery. I had a problem eating for the first 2 months. Then after starting to exercise, my appetite improved and I was able to eat anything!! It has also increased my appetite as well. Even with me eating a little more food, it hasn't hurt my weight loss. You just have to keep up the exercise to balance it all out.
   — Patty H.

July 17, 2002
Yes! Body builders use a protein drink with carbs before work outs, and a recovery drink after (way high carbs). I dont' dare do THAT, but I have a no carb protein drink on my way to the gym, another while I'm dressing and then some good carbs on the way home, like half a grain bread sandwich. Otherwise I WANT CANDY! So, um, not doing that. Won't help me at all, anyway. I get the protein in to work with the muscles & promise me my "recovery carbs" as a treat. Somehow knowing that it's good for me AND what my body wants makes it taste that much better.
   — vitalady

July 17, 2002
Again, congratulations! I agree with the others that it is normal. I am two years post op and have recently really increased the exercise via mini-triathlons. I increased the cardio workout to 6 hours a week and 3 hours a week of weight training. Not only did my appetite and food intake increase, I gained 5-6 pounds. Whoa, that was scary but then I realized that my upper legs and arms were getting more muscular. And, of course, muscle weighs more than fat. I am still in size 8 but have decided to do a hydrostatic weighing next week to see where my body fat level is settling. This is all a little early for you at 4 months post op but thought I might share it for others also. I want to encourage you to stay positive and reassure you that the hunger is a normal thing, all humans need to feel hunger and deal with it!
   — Judy B.