Introduction
Feeling hungry after sex has been found as one of the common phenomena that many individuals experience. But you do not have to get worried.
The condition belongs to the physiological and psychological reasons as sex is an energy-consuming activity that, when performed, triggers hormonal changes and, in turn, influences hunger and metabolism.
Therefore, in this particular article, we will help you to determine all of the information related to why people get hungry after sex.
Physiological reasons for feeling hungry after sex
Emotional bonding
When individuals are undergoing sex, then it releases oxytocin and dopamine, which in turn enhances the feeling of intimacy and overall satisfaction. But these particular hormones also interact with hunger-regulating hormones and, in some of the cases, lead to an increase in appetite post-intercourse.
Stress relief
Sex, on the other hand, also releases stress and reduces cortisol levels (which is the primary stress hormone). In individuals, stress and appetite are closely linked and this in turn can drop the hunger.
In simple terms, when your body releases stress, then it demands food, and in this manner, your craving stops, and your mind works more easily.
Psychological factors contributing to post-sex hunger
Different factors that control post-sex hunger are as it is associated with pleasure and, in other cases, comfort eating. The level of hunger rises between 12:00 and the least hungry at 16:00.
The time to which the hunger slows down is 20:00, and It was discovered that 25% of participants said they were eating at the time of the evaluation, which took place between 12:00 and 20:00.
Increased Metabolic Rate
Sexual activity can increase the metabolic rate and this is quite a normal condition. This is being done by increasing the heart rate, blood circulation, and energy expenditure and causing a temporary spike in metabolism.
The body is found to compensate for the energy by signalling hunger and in this manner the overall condition is being controlled.
Upon research, it has been found that most people talk about their metabolism like it is either a muscle or also organ that can flex. But when we speak in reality, then, the metabolism refers to the process of chemicals in each cell that can turn the calories you eat into fuel and that keep you alive.
How Many Calories Does Sex Burn?
The number of calories burned during sex is entirely dependent upon different factors like duration, intensity, and physical movement.
However, if we tell you the nearby range then in men, the 100-200 calories per session.
Within women, it is around 70-120 calories per session.
Moreover, in most of the intense cases, it can go over 300 calories.
As per the research, results have shown that men burned 101 calories and, on average, around 24 minutes of the session. Whereas women burned 69 calories, and the mean intensity was 6.0 METS in men and 5.6 METS in women, which in turn the moderate intensity.
Throughout the 30 minutes, men can burn 276 calories, and women burn 213 calories.
Tips for Managing Post-Sex Hunger
Staying Hydrated
If you are not drinking water, then your body can indicate a sign of dehydration, which can cause trouble during sex. As it increases hunger and hence, it is advisable to drink water, tea, or other herbal drinks to put a stop to your hunger.
Keeping Healthy Snacks on Hand
Individuals should also opt for eating protein-rich snacks which mainly include nuts, yoghurt, or fruits instead of processed foods.
Avoid sugary foods
Consuming sugary food can rapidly spike and crash blood sugar, leading to more carvings further.
Communicating with Your Partner
If post-sex hunger is becoming a major problem, then it is advised to consult or discuss it with your partner so that the problem can be solved easily without any difficulty.
Maintain a balanced diet
Try to eat a diet that has balanced nutrients and that can help you to reduce your entire day’s hunger before and after sex.
Why Do People Have an Increased Appetite After Sexual Intercourse?
Different reasons contribute to why people have an increased appetite after sexual intercourse, and this involves- hormonal fluctuations that can regulate hunger and satisfaction.
There can be physical exertion which indicates the body to seek food and reduces hunger.
Lastly, the dopamine surge is linked with pleasurable activities like eating.
Is it normal to get craving for food after sex
Is it normal for a male to be hungry after sex?
Yes, it is completely normal for men to feel hungry after sex, and there is nothing to be worried about. It has been found that sexual activity requires physical exertion, and this, in turn, increases energy expenditure, which results in hunger.
Moreover, at the time of orgasm, the body also releases dopamine and oxytocin, which in turn can impact appetite regulation. In men, the level of testosterone fluctuates right after sex and plays an important role in metabolism and energy level changes.
Is it normal for a female to be hungry after sex?
In the case of women, feeling hungry after sex is also found to be normal, and it is determined as a natural response. There is a release of oxytocin and serotonin at the time of making love in turn promotes relaxation and bonding between couples.
But there can be an increase in appetite, promoting hunger. Moreover, it has also been found that sex can temporarily cause a drop in blood sugar levels, making women crave food.
How to Handle Hunger After Sex?
When it is about to handle hunger after sex, then there is a need to eat light, protein-rich meals before sex to maintain the desired amount of energy.
Ensure to avoid overeating before sex, as it can cause problems or discomfort.
It is advisable to opt for nutritious post-sex snacks.
Why Do I Feel Weak After Sex?
Weakness after sex is quite a normal condition as it causes dehydration in some cases, depletion of energy, and also, there can be drop in blood sugar levels.
Hence, drink lots of water as it will help your body to keep hydrated and perform for longer hours with energy.
Ensure you are consuming a rich and balanced diet to maintain the level of energy. Do not go beyond your energy, as it can cause overexertion during sex.
When to Seek Medical Advice
When you are facing extreme problems during sex-related to your hunger, then it is advisable to consult with a doctor immediately.
As the condition might indicate with blood sugar imbalance.
There can be hormonal disorder
The deficiency of nutrients, i.e., protein, iron, or essential vitamins
Conclusion
Hunger after sexual intercourse has been one of the common problems among both men and women. The different reasons are physical exertion, hormonal changes, and metabolic shifts.
Therefore, it is advisable to understand the physiological and psychological reasons behind it and manage the post-sex cravings effectively. Consequently, it is advisable to stay hydrated, consume a rich diet, and best to consult with a doctor so that the condition can be controlled easily.