What is defined as a physical need for food?

Hunger is defined as a physical need for food. It is the body's biological signal indicating that it requires nourishment to function properly. When your body experiences hunger, it activates physiological responses, such as stomach contractions and the release of hormones like ghrelin, which signal to your brain that it is time to eat. This sensation serves as a vital mechanism for maintaining energy balance and ensuring that essential nutrients are consumed.

In contrast, appetite refers to the psychological desire to eat, which can be influenced by external factors such as emotional state, food availability, and sensory stimuli. Cravings are specific urges for certain types of food, often driven by emotional or psychological factors rather than physical need. Nutrition, on the other hand, pertains to the nourishment that food provides, focusing on the types of substances required for health and growth. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why hunger is specifically recognized as the physical need for food.