If you’re on a weight loss journey, then you probably know the feeling of being hungry. But did you know that there are 3 different kinds of hunger? Often times, we eat because our mind tells us to or because we’re used to eating at a certain time. But truly, the only way to tell if you’re actually hungry is to listen to your body.

Identifying when you’re actually hungry and when your mind is tricking your body into feeling hungry can be a huge step in the right direction if you’re looking to lose weight.

In the video below, Dr. Phil explains how recognizing different kinds of hunger can help you in your weight loss goals.

1. Physical Hunger

Also known as ACTUALLY being hungry. This is when your body is telling you that you need sustenance through signs like fatigue, light-headedness, stomach pains, ect. Your blood sugar is likely dropping and your body is in desperate need of fuel to keep going.

When you feel these signs, it’s crucial to feed your body. The key, of course, is just filling your tank with healthy meals that will keep you full and energized.

2. Mind Hunger

This type of hunger is often involved heavily with your emotions. Maybe you had a hard day at work, maybe you’re stressed out, maybe you just went through a terrible breakup — no matter what it is, you’re feeling vulnerable and your mind is telling you to find comfort in food.

It’s not uncommon to sabotage your healthy eating with these emotional binges. Our best advice? Handle your stress or sadness through other outlets such as exercise, writing, meditation, or anything that keeps you balanced.

3. Habitual Hunger

Although this type of “hunger” is ingrained in your brain, it’s such an easy way to ruin all your hard work. Habitual hunger is your brain telling you it’s time to eat just because it’s a certain time or because you’re in a certain situation.

For example, say you come home from work at 5 — your brain might tell you that it’s time to eat, even if your body doesn’t need food, but just because you always eat when you come home from work. These unnecessary eating times can really hold you back from your weight loss goals.

Make sure to watch the video below to get Dr. Phil’s take on these three types of hunger.