Is it normal to be constantly starving?

annieee

I train 3 times a week, 2 track nights and one long (ish) run at weekends.

I'm just wondering if all runners are always hungry? I could have a big bowl of porridge for breakfast, an hour later I'm eating 4 slices of toast and jam, big lunch, huge portions at dinnertime (way more than my husband)

Is it the running?

(Or is my body storing up for Winter? )

robinph

Your burning off more calories that normal people do sat watching x-factor on the sofa. Takes more energy so you get to eat more.

That is a good thing surely?

Seres

im not training as much now but when i was training six days a week doing at least 5 miles on those days i was always hungry too !

annieee

robinph wrote: »

Your burning off more calories that normal people do sat watching x-factor on the sofa. Takes more energy so you get to eat more.

That is a good thing surely?

Oh yeah, it's great!

Just checking! So you eat like a horse too?

mloc123

Providing you are not gaining weight, yes.

Seres

robinph wrote: »

Your burning off more calories that normal people do sat watching x-factor on the sofa. Takes more energy so you get to eat more.

That is a good thing surely?

if your training is causing you to avoid watching x factor then thats also a good thing , watching xfactor = waste of life , running =living life

shotgunmcos

Seres wrote: »

if your training is causing you to avoid watching x factor then thats also a good thing , watching xfactor = waste of life , running =living life

I watch x factor on the turbo (not the whole thing mind)


OP - yes your appetite will be driven by your calorie expenditure. Try to ensure you are taking on protein with each meal and especially after sessions. Drink plenty of water too the oul brain confuses hunger and thirst sometimes. Also, more at breakfast and less of the huge dinner portion! Snacking on nuts during the day kills the constant hunger too.

maria74

This is what gets me out there running in this cold weather...the thought that I can eat what I pretty much like and not put on weight as long as I am training.
Could be why I am running as fast as I can probably walk tho!:P

tunney

I find that its more common that people overeat when they start running.

Running three times a week wouldn't have a huge impact on the calorie requirements for the week I would have though 500-800 kcal per run.

Perhaps its false hunger brought on from dehydration?

TheRoadRunner

My wife lost the plot with me about an hour ago regarding my constant grazing. Other people eating really gets on her nerves and I usually eating something small or drinking (another of her pet hates).

I'd tend to agree with a lot of the above yes you will need additional calories but maybe not to the extent you may think. 4 pieces of toast with butter is ~400 calories and would be well on the way to canceling out your run. If there is other " extra"stuff consumed you could add a little weight. All depends on your build, metabolism etc

kennyb3

If you are running you ll prob be more hungry than before, however i think the key it to eat more of the right food. Like i try eat more fruit and some nuts between meals to tied me over, rather than saying oh i did a decent run i deserve a choclate bar or a chinese.

In saying that we all deserve a treat from time to time - altho dont do what i did and wolf 2 pizza's like i did last night for example - not good.

I guess it all comes down to what your priorities are - do you run so you can eat with you want or do you wanna improve your times and lose weight.

jailhouse_dave

I also think its that time the time of year. I think when the weather starts getting cold our bodies try and make us fatten up for the winter, its hardwired from caveman days. You look at the animal / fish kingdom and it what happens.

I absolutely gorge when i am not well, I have a bit of man flu at the moment and today i had a snack box (for lunch), a bagel, porridge and 6 bars of chocolate. I am so glad that i didnt do the DCM because i reckon i will still be sick on monday.

annieee

Ok, thanks all. Up the water intake and cut out the toast and jam seems to be good advice.

I'm not gaining weight but it won't be long at the rate I'm scoffing. Though I have a high metabolism naturally and running around after a 2 year old and a four year old burns up a good few calories.

So, if I lose weight will I run faster?? :D

robinph

annieee wrote: »

So, if I lose weight will I run faster?? :D

No, but the treadmill that your aeroplane is driving along might take off.