New research confirms that 'hanger' — the irritable, angry feeling that arises when hungry — is a genuine phenomenon, with significant effects on mood and cognitive function. A 2022 study by psychologist Nienke Jonker at the University of Groningen found that women who fasted for 14 hours reported more than twice the anger levels of those who had eaten, along with higher tension, depression, fatigue, and confusion.
Hunger also makes people more susceptible to negative emotional influences. In experiments led by Kristen Lindquist at the University of North Carolina, hungry participants were more likely to be swayed by negative images when judging ambiguous symbols, indicating reduced emotional regulation.
Beyond mood, hunger can impair decision-making. A famous 2011 study of Israeli parole judges found that rulings became harsher as the morning wore on, with a sharp drop in favourable decisions just before lunch. This suggests that hunger may increase punitive tendencies and impulsivity.
The effects extend to broader societal issues. Research in Indian schools showed that providing meals improved students' cognitive performance by 13% to 16%, highlighting how hunger can exacerbate inequality.
Experts warn that even everyday hunger can bias thinking, making people more pessimistic, risk-averse, and prone to simplistic black-and-white reasoning. Understanding these effects is crucial, especially for those making important decisions on an empty stomach.
