We've all been there. You're in the middle of your day, trying to get things done, and suddenly, you feel it—a pang of hunger so sharp that it's more than just a craving. You're not just hungry; you're irritated, snappy, and everything around you seems to test your patience. What started as a slight grumble in your stomach has turned into full-on rage. Now you don't even know whether you are hangry or angrier, or maybe something weirdly in between.

This crazy jumble of emotions is what people refer to as being "hangry," a bright and clever portmanteau of the words "hungry" and "angry." Wanting to eat something is a little different, though, from being hungry enough that you start to feel it seep into your mood and your patience. Most people have; if they haven't, then there's probably a good chance that you know someone who has.

What is Hangry, really?

Being "hangry" isn't exactly a medical diagnosis, per se, but it is most definitely a real phenomenon.

Some folks just get angry or irritable or even emotional if they don't eat for some time. The presentation of hanger varies from person to person: some lash out in frustration while others may feel anxious, feel down, or totally crazed. Some people might even feel this way if they do not eat enough during the day. But why does hunger cause such an emotionally evocative feeling? What is the physics behind it?

As explained by experts, hanger is triggered by a biochemical reaction in your body, especially once your blood sugar levels have dropped. Without food intake, your blood sugar (glucose) levels drop low. Since glucose is the primary fuel for your brain, the situation starts getting out of hand when it does not get its due.

How You Become Hangry?

The moment your blood sugar drops, it triggers a cocktail of hormones that balance things out in your body.

Among these two other vital players are stress hormones: cortisol and adrenaline. One is termed the "stress hormone" as it's one released at moments of stress to help you cope while the other is your "fight-or-flight" hormone. Both of them are released into your blood to help raise and stabilize your blood sugar levels. These stress hormones, however, will also mess with your emotional regulation.

Cortisol can trigger aggression in some; one's lower brain functions interfere with higher brain activities like that which guides impulse control and emotion regulation. In other words, when your body runs low on fuel, you're left with a rage in the throes of said irritability and crankiness-the kind we've all come to refer to as hanger. Let's find out why your stomach growling can turn into you growling, and how to tame the inner beast of hunger.

The Inner Beast: The Science Behind Why Your Stomach Growling Can Turn into You Growling and How to Calm It Down

Role of Serotonin: Your Gut's Secret Weapon

One of the major players in the control of your mood is the chemical that most people have heard of called serotonin. This is known as the "feel-good" chemical. An astonishing 90% of serotonin is produced in your gut, not your brain. So if your gut is well-fed, it will churn out plenty of serotonin, which will keep your mood level and hold the bright smiling side of you in place. Dotted lines connect the nerves via pathways of neurotransmitters, including serotonin. When you skip meals, your gut's serotonin production slows down.

Without enough serotonin, your mood becomes volatile- something like a cranky toddler who overslept: cranky, cranky, uncooperative. That is why you don't really care if your partner is breathing too loudly until you get hungry.

Blood Sugar: A Rollercoaster Ride

Your brain needs glucose to operate. Low blood sugar will make you function as though you were trying to run a smartphone on 1% battery if it works at all, things don't work quite the same.

Your brain can't do decision-making, impulse control, or regulate your emotions. And low blood sugar can even trigger the release of cortisol and adrenaline that leaves you feeling more stressed than when you started. Low serotonin levels paired with more stress hormones mean that when the pangs of hunger catch you, you may feel like snapping at everyone in line.

A study published in Nature Reviews Neuroscience revealed that the gut can send distress signals to the brain, influencing mood regulation and stress responses. Another Cell study has demonstrated how disruptions in gut health could alter mood and behavior, thus underlining the radically intertwined nature of the brains and the digestive system.

Next time you get angry because you skipped breakfast, it's just biology being a little dramatic.

Other Effects of Being Way Too Hungry

Hunger does not make all individuals respond in a similar manner. While not every individual becomes hangry, all people are affected by hunger in different ways. Some may become tired, drowsy, or unfocused. Others may become clumsy or notice a surge in mistakes. Those who do not have control over their temper and lack impulse control are still far more susceptible to hangriness.

While there is no direct link between multiple episodes of hanger and personality disorders, hunger has many negative physical ramifications other than causing a short temper.

Hunger is how your body lets you know it needs to be fueled; depriving your body of fuel for too long has emotional and physical aftermaths. Regardless, whether you feel hangry or just a little cranky when you haven't eaten, learn how to pay attention to the signs your body is giving you and fuel it with balanced meals. Regular feeding in addition to adding some mood-stabilizing foods to the diet can help control those pesky hunger-induced mood swings.

Hangry Cure: Five Foods to the Rescue

1. Bananas – Rich in natural sugars and fiber, bananas will give you a quick energy boost while stabilizing your blood sugar.

2. Nuts and Seeds – Almonds or sunflower seeds have protein and healthy fats that satisfy hunger for longer.

3. Greek Yogurt – High on proteins and probiotics, Greek yogurt supports your gut well-being and satisfies your hunger pangs.

4. Chana (Roasted Chickpeas) – A popular Indian snack, roasted chana is a high-protein, fiber-rich option that can provide long-lasting energy

5. Poha – This Indian dish is lightweight and nutritious, offering balanced carbohydrates with the help of fiber that can quickly satisfy hunger.

Getting good-quality sleep does more than just help you wake up refreshed—it could also extend your lifespan. A 2023 study found that people who consistently fell asleep easily, stayed asleep through the night, and woke up feeling rested had a significantly lower risk of early death, and were 30% less likely to die from any cause, 21% less likely to have heart disease, 19% lower risk of cancer, and 40% lower risk from other causes.

Given these benefits, it’s no wonder many turn to supplements to improve their sleep. Two of the most popular options are melatonin and magnesium. But which one truly helps you drift into deep, peaceful sleep?

Role of Melatonin In Sleep

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that helps signal it’s time to sleep,” says Kenneth Lee, M.D., medical director of the Sleep Disorders Center at UChicago Medicine. According to the Mayo Clinic, melatonin levels rise in the evening when it gets dark and drop in the morning with daylight. “It regulates your circadian rhythm, telling your body when to rest,” adds dietitian Stephanie Crabtree, M.S., R.D.

Melatonin production stays steady through young adulthood but begins to decline after age 40, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That’s one reason melatonin supplements are often studied for older adults. Dr. Lee notes that it can be especially helpful for issues like jet lag, shift work, or misaligned sleep schedules. “If you’re someone who can’t fall asleep until 1 a.m. but need to wake up early, melatonin taken at the right time can help shift your body clock,” he explains.

A 2022 review in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews found that melatonin helped people with sleep and neurodevelopmental disorders fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, research is mixed for those using it as a general sleep aid. A Sleep Medicine Reviews analysis of 24 studies concluded that melatonin may help some people but is not consistently effective for all.

Side Effects of Melatonin

According to the Mayo Clinic, oral melatonin can sometimes cause headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Less common effects may include mild tremors, anxiety, or confusion. It can also interact with medications such as blood thinners, diabetes drugs, and contraceptives, so it’s important to consult your doctor before use.

How Magnesium Supports Better Sleep

Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in hundreds of body processes, including those linked to rest. “It helps calm the nervous system, relax muscles, and regulate neurotransmitters, which together promote sleep,” says Crabtree. It also supports the body’s natural production of melatonin.

Unlike melatonin, magnesium doesn’t directly trigger sleep but may improve relaxation and reduce nighttime restlessness. “It helps regulate GABA, a neurotransmitter that quiets the brain,” says Dr. Lee. A 2024 study in Sleep Medicine: X found that magnesium L-threonate supplementation improved sleep quality, though the results were based on self-reported data. “In my experience, some patients find magnesium helpful, while others notice little change,” Dr. Lee adds.

Side Effects of Magnesium

According to Dr. Lee, magnesium may cause nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps, especially at high doses. The NIH also notes that it can interfere with certain medications, including antibiotics, diuretics, and drugs for osteoporosis or acid reflux.

Melatonin vs. magnesium: Which Is Better?

Research remains inconclusive on which supplement works best. “Melatonin may help if your main issue is falling asleep, or if you’re adjusting to jet lag or shift changes,” says Crabtree. “But magnesium can be more effective for restless nights or tension that keeps you from relaxing. It also supports deep, restorative sleep and can be used safely for longer periods.”

Natural Ways To Sleep Better

• Practicing good sleep hygiene: Use your bed only for sleep and intimacy, avoid screens or heavy meals before bed, and create a calming pre-sleep routine.
• Trying cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I): This structured approach helps retrain your mind and body for better sleep.
• Getting screened for sleep disorders: Persistent sleep problems may signal conditions like sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, which require medical care.

Dietary supplements are meant to complement your diet, not replace medical treatment. They are not designed to diagnose, treat, or cure illnesses. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or considering giving it to a child.

The Stratus strain, also known as the ‘Frankenstein’ variant, belongs to the SARS-CoV-2 XFG and XFG.3 lineages and has been spreading swiftly across the United Kingdom, with evidence suggesting it is also circulating globally. According to recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), these variants now account for nearly 30 percent of all COVID-19 cases in England, with XFG.3 emerging as the most dominant strain.

In recent weeks, medical experts have voiced concerns that the Stratus variant might have the ability to partially evade immunity built through vaccination, potentially increasing infection risks across all age groups.

What Sets the Stratus or ‘Frankenstein’ Variant Apart?

One of the unusual symptoms linked to this strain is a hoarse or raspy voice, which doctors say was rarely reported with previous variants. “Unlike earlier strains, Stratus carries specific mutations in its spike protein that may allow it to slip past antibodies formed through prior infection or vaccination,” explained Dr. Kaywaan Khan, a Harley Street general practitioner and founder of the Hannah London Clinic.

Is the Stratus Variant More Transmissible?

The XFG or Stratus strain is a member of the Omicron family and is a hybrid of two subvariants, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. This combination of genetic material helps the virus attach more tightly to human cells, making it potentially more contagious. Like other variants, it also contains several mutations that may enhance its ability to evade antibodies produced either through infection or vaccination.

Could The ‘Frankenstein’ Variant Be The Most Vaccine-Resistant?

Early reports from health authorities suggest that existing COVID-19 vaccines still provide a degree of protection against the Stratus variant. Vaccines designed for earlier strains continue to reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization across multiple variants, and experts remain cautiously hopeful that they will do the same against Stratus. However, studies are ongoing to determine how much protection current vaccines actually provide against this specific strain.

As the situation develops, public health recommendations may change. Officials are urging people to follow reliable updates and continue to follow safety advice. Vaccination appointments remain widely available in the UK, and eligible individuals are encouraged to receive their doses or boosters as recommended.

What Are the Symptoms of Stratus?

The most common symptom so far appears to be a sore throat, though overall, the symptoms are similar to those caused by other COVID-19 variants. People infected with Stratus may experience:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Runny or congested nose
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

So far, XFG has not been linked to more severe illness compared to previous variants, and hospitalization rates have not shown a sharp increase, which is reassuring.

Why The Stratus Variant Still Deserves Attention

Although it does not appear to cause more severe disease, the Stratus variant is a reminder that COVID-19 continues to evolve. Vaccines remain the strongest line of defense, and researchers are continuing to study how well they perform against this strain. Staying informed through credible sources and following updated health guidance can help limit the spread and keep communities safer.

Infertility impacts millions across the globe, touching both men and women alike. According to the World Health Organization, around 17.5% of the global population, roughly one in six people, experience fertility challenges. This condition can significantly reduce or even prevent natural conception.

Yet, despite its prevalence, infertility remains clouded by myths and misconceptions, many of which unfairly place the blame solely on women. Seeking to debunk these long-held beliefs, Dr. Holly Miller, an American Board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, took to Instagram to share three important truths every woman should know about fertility.

3 Truths About Fertility Women Should Know

With the help of modern medicine and medical interventions like IVF, fertility treatment can help people boost their chances of reproducing.

Infertility Isn't Just a Woman's Issue

It’s important to understand that infertility affects both partners — it’s not solely a woman’s issue. Blaming only the woman is both unfair and inaccurate. In fact, experts find that the causes of infertility are almost evenly split between men and women.

Roughly one-third of infertility cases are linked to the woman, another third to the man, and the remaining third result from issues affecting both partners — or from causes that doctors are unable to clearly identify.

To identify the cause of infertility, both partners should undergo testing simultaneously. For men, a semen analysis — a quick and straightforward test — is often the easiest and most informative first step.

The "Wait One Year" Rule Changes with Age

Most couples automatically try to conceive for a full 12 months before they think about seeing a fertility doctor. However, the doctor emphasizes that the woman's age is the single most important factor that affects the chances of successful treatment.

If you are under 35 years old: You can safely try for a full 12 months of regular, unprotected sex before seeking a specialist.

If you are 35 or older: You should contact a specialist after only 6 months of trying without success.

If you are 40 or older: You need to see a specialist right away—as quickly as you possibly can.

The doctor explains that after age 35, the woman's egg supply starts to decline more quickly. Time is essential, so couples should strongly ask their doctors for an early referral.

"Unexplained Infertility" Often Means "Undiagnosed Problem"

When a couple is diagnosed with "unexplained infertility," which happens in about 10% to 20% of cases, it means the basic first tests did not find a clear reason. This can be upsetting, but it does not mean you can never have children. In the doctor's experience, the term "unexplained" often means there are hidden problems, such as:

• Small issues with the male partner's sperm that were missed by the basic tests.
• A hidden condition called Endometriosis, which can only be confirmed by a surgical procedure.
• Not having sexual intercourse at the best time or not often enough.