Why Do I Still Feel Hungry on Mounjaro?

By 
Dr Amit Kumar Singh
 on 
 • 
5
 min read

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) has become a popular choice for weight loss, especially among women looking for a reliable way to manage cravings and reduce their appetite. Known for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels and mimic hormones that control hunger, Mounjaro often provides welcome support for those who’ve struggled with traditional weight-loss methods.

Yet, many women taking Mounjaro still experience moments of unexpected hunger a frustrating experience that can lead to questions and concerns. After all, isn’t the medication supposed to make you feel less hungry? If you’ve been wondering, “Why do I still feel hungry while on Mounjaro?” you’re not alone.

Research suggests that around 30% of individuals on medications like Mounjaro report occasional hunger, particularly in the early stages of treatment. It’s normal to feel frustrated by these unexpected cravings. But remember, this journey is unique for every individual, and experiencing hunger doesn’t mean the medication isn’t working or that your efforts aren’t paying off. Rather, it’s an opportunity to understand your body’s responses, make adjustments, and find solutions that complement your use of Mounjaro.

How Mounjaro Works

Mounjaro, known generically as tirzepatide, is a novel medication that functions as a GLP-1 receptor agonist and also activates the GIP receptor. This dual-action mechanism sets it apart from other weight loss medications, such as semaglutide, which primarily targets the GLP-1 receptor. Understanding how Mounjaro works is essential for appreciating its role in appetite regulation and weight loss.

Mechanism of Action as a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist

Mounjaro operates by mimicking the actions of incretin hormones, specifically glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These hormones play a crucial role in glucose metabolism and appetite regulation.

  1. Activation of GLP-1 and GIP Receptors: By activating both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, Mounjaro enhances insulin secretion in response to meals while simultaneously inhibiting glucagon release, which helps lower blood sugar levels. This mechanism is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes but also supports weight loss by regulating appetite.
  2. Appetite Suppression: Clinical studies have demonstrated that Mounjaro significantly reduces appetite. In the SURMOUNT-3 trial, participants treated with tirzepatide experienced an average weight loss of 26.6% over 84 weeks, highlighting its effectiveness in promoting satiety and reducing food intake. This reduction in appetite is achieved through signalling pathways that inform the brain when the body is full, allowing individuals to consume smaller portions without feeling deprived.

Regulation of Appetite and Increased Feelings of Fullness

Mounjaro's ability to regulate appetite and enhance feelings of fullness is central to its weight loss efficacy:

  • Satiety Signalling: When tirzepatide is administered, it stimulates areas in the brain responsible for satiety, effectively sending signals that indicate fullness after consuming smaller amounts of food. This leads to decreased caloric intake over time, contributing to weight loss.
  • Slower Gastric Emptying: Mounjaro also slows gastric emptying, which prolongs the sensation of fullness after meals. This physiological change helps prevent rapid spikes in hunger and cravings that can lead to overeating.
  • Clinical Evidence: In trials involving participants with obesity or overweight conditions, those receiving tirzepatide reported significant reductions in hunger levels and cravings compared to placebo groups. 

Why Might You Still Feel Hungry on Mounjaro?

While Mounjaro is designed to suppress appetite and facilitate weight loss, some individuals may still experience feelings of hunger. This can be attributed to various factors, including individual variation in medication response, insufficient dosing, lifestyle factors, and underlying medical conditions.

1. Individual Variation

Response to Medications

Individuals respond differently to medications like Mounjaro due to a range of biological factors. Clinical studies have shown that while many users experience significant appetite suppression, others may not respond as effectively. 

Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity in people with type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2 Trial)

In the SURMOUNT-2 trial, participants treated with Mounjaro lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 72 weeks; however, some participants reported persistent hunger despite being on the medication. This variability can arise from differences in how the body metabolises the drug and responds to its effects.

Genetic and Metabolic Factors

Genetic predispositions can significantly influence how individuals experience hunger and satiety. Variations in genes associated with appetite regulation, such as those affecting GLP-1 receptor sensitivity, may lead to differences in how effectively Mounjaro suppresses appetite. 

Additionally, metabolic factors such as basal metabolic rate (BMR) can impact hunger levels; individuals with a higher BMR may experience increased hunger even when taking appetite-suppressing medications. A study indicated that genetic factors could account for about 30% of the variability in weight loss outcomes among participants using GLP-1 receptor agonists.

2. Lifestyle Factors

Role of Diet and Exercise

Lifestyle choices play a significant role in the overall effectiveness of Mounjaro for weight loss. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, combined with regular physical activity, is essential for achieving optimal results. Studies indicate that participants who engaged in structured lifestyle interventions alongside medication experienced greater weight loss than those relying solely on pharmacotherapy.

Importance of Balanced Diet and Regular Physical Activity

Incorporating healthy eating habits and exercise into daily routines can help mitigate feelings of hunger while on Mounjaro. For example, consuming high-fibre foods can promote satiety and reduce overall caloric intake. Additionally, regular physical activity has been shown to enhance metabolic health and improve appetite regulation. Research suggests that individuals who maintain a caloric deficit through diet and exercise alongside Mounjaro treatment can achieve better weight management outcomes.

4. Underlying Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can contribute to persistent feelings of hunger even when using Mounjaro:

  • Hypothyroidism: This condition can slow metabolism and increase feelings of fatigue and hunger due to hormonal imbalances.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS often experience insulin resistance, which can lead to increased appetite and difficulty managing weight despite treatment efforts.

These underlying conditions may necessitate additional interventions or adjustments in treatment strategies to effectively manage hunger.

Strategies to Manage Hunger on Mounjaro

Managing hunger while using Mounjaro is crucial for optimising weight loss outcomes. Here are several effective strategies that incorporate mindful eating, dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and professional guidance.

1. Mindful Eating

Encouraging Slow, Intentional Eating

Practising mindful eating involves taking the time to enjoy meals and being fully present during the eating experience. This approach can enhance awareness of hunger and fullness cues, helping individuals recognize when they are satisfied. Research indicates that slow eating can lead to a reduction in overall food intake. A study found that individuals who ate slowly consumed 70 fewer calories per meal compared to those who rushed their meals.

Paying Attention to Hunger and Fullness Cues

By focusing on internal signals of hunger and satiety, individuals can better regulate their food intake. Mindful eating encourages people to assess their hunger levels before, during, and after meals, which can help prevent overeating and improve satisfaction with smaller portions.

2. Dietary Strategies

Balanced Diet Rich in Protein, Fiber, and Healthy Fats

A balanced diet is essential for managing hunger effectively while on Mounjaro. Incorporating high-protein foods, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes, and low-fat dairy products, can enhance feelings of fullness. Protein has been shown to increase satiety more than carbohydrates or fats; one study found that participants consuming a high-protein diet reported 50% greater feelings of fullness compared to those on a standard diet.

Fibre-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, also play a critical role in appetite control. Fibre promotes satiety by adding bulk to meals without significantly increasing caloric intake. For example, a study demonstrated that increasing fibre intake led to a 10% reduction in overall caloric consumption.

Healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil can further enhance satiety. These fats take longer to digest and can help maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Frequent Smaller Meals and Snacks

Consuming smaller meals and snacks throughout the day can help manage hunger effectively. Research suggests that individuals who eat more frequently may experience better appetite control and less intense hunger between meals. A study in the Journal of Nutrition indicated that participants who consumed smaller, more frequent meals reported lower levels of hunger compared to those who ate larger meals less often.

2. Role of Hydration

Staying adequately hydrated is essential for managing hunger. Drinking water before meals can promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall caloric intake. 

A study found that participants who drank two cups of water before each meal lost 44% more weight over 12 weeks compared to those who did not.

3. Regular Physical Activity

Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for weight management and can help regulate appetite. Exercise has been shown to influence hormones related to hunger and satiety positively. 

Clinical Insights

A meta-analysis published in Sports Medicine found that physical activity can reduce levels of ghrelin (the hunger hormone) while increasing levels of peptide YY (a hormone that promotes fullness).

4. Benefits of Stress Management Techniques

Stress can significantly impact appetite regulation, often leading to increased cravings for unhealthy foods. Implementing stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help mitigate stress-induced eating behaviours. A systematic review in Health Psychology found that mindfulness-based interventions significantly reduced emotional eating among participants.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional

Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential for tailoring weight loss strategies while using Mounjaro. Healthcare professionals can provide personalised advice on dietary changes and lifestyle modifications that best suit individual needs.

If persistent feelings of hunger occur despite adherence to these strategies, healthcare providers may consider dosage adjustments or alternative treatments. Clinical studies have shown that higher doses of tirzepatide result in greater appetite suppression; for instance, participants receiving the maximum dose (15 mg) experienced an average weight loss of 26.6% over 84 weeks compared to lower doses.

Conclusion

Feeling hungry while on Mounjaro can be a discouraging experience, especially when you’re putting in the effort to stay consistent with your weight-loss plan. Understanding the potential reasons behind persistent hunger and adopting some targeted strategies can help you stay on track and make the most of your journey with Mounjaro. 

Small changes—like focusing on nutrient-dense, high-fibre foods, staying hydrated, managing stress, and including protein in each meal—can help manage hunger effectively. Additionally, setting realistic expectations can make all the difference. Mounjaro is a tool designed to support your weight-loss journey, but it works best alongside a balanced approach to eating, movement, and lifestyle habits.

Still feeling hungry on Mounjaro? You're not alone, and there are ways to manage it. Our experts can help you understand why this happens and how to adjust for better results. Contact us today at SheMed for personalised guidance and support on your weight loss journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Does eating certain foods reduce hunger more effectively on Mounjaro?
    Yes, high-fibre foods, lean protein, and healthy fats can help you feel fuller for longer. Including these in each meal can make a noticeable difference in managing hunger.
  2. Will my hunger reduce if I increase the Mounjaro dose?
    Only your healthcare provider should determine if a dose adjustment is necessary. Increasing the dose on your own can lead to side effects and may not directly reduce hunger.
  3. Can exercise make me feel hungrier on Mounjaro?
    Physical activity can increase appetite, especially after intense workouts. Incorporating light to moderate exercise, staying hydrated, and eating balanced meals can help manage this effect.
  4. Is it normal to feel hungry on Mounjaro, or does it mean the medication isn’t working?
    Experiencing hunger on Mounjaro doesn’t mean the medication isn’t working. Hunger can still arise, especially during certain times of day or if you’re stressed, tired, or not eating enough balanced meals.
  5. Are there ways to manage hunger while taking Mounjaro?
    Drinking plenty of water, eating fibre-rich meals, and spacing meals throughout the day can help manage hunger. Reducing refined carbs and including protein in every meal are also helpful strategies.
  6. What should I do if my hunger is affecting my weight-loss progress?
    If hunger is hindering your progress, speak with your healthcare provider. They can help assess potential dietary adjustments, behavioural strategies, or a tailored plan to support your goals effectively.
  7. Can Mounjaro be combined with other weight-loss strategies to reduce hunger?
    Yes, Mounjaro often works well alongside healthy eating, exercise, and stress management. Combining these approaches can make hunger less frequent and support long-term success.
  8. Is feeling less hungry on Mounjaro a sign that it’s working?
    Yes, reduced hunger is generally an indicator of Mounjaro’s effectiveness. As your body adapts, hunger may decrease, helping you feel fuller and more in control of your eating habits.

References

  1. D'Souza, A. M., & Kahn, S. E. (2023). Tirzepatide after intensive lifestyle intervention in adults with overweight or obesity: The SURMOUNT-3 phase 3 trial. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36751934/
  2. Kahn, S. E., & Cooper, M. E. (2012). Eating & physical activity to lose or maintain weight. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22776039/
  3. Michalak, J., & Möller, A. (2021). Mindful eating: A review of how the stress-digestion-mindfulness triad may modulate and improve gastrointestinal and digestive function. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36751934/
  4. McGarrigle, C., & Leach, J. (2021). Mindfulness-based positive psychology interventions: A systematic review. BMC Psychology, 9(1), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-021-00510-0

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