Hunger is a constant battle. Some people even claim they're never sure if they actually feel a sensation of hunger. The truth is we eat much bigger portions than our bodies need. We also often choose unhealthy snacks throughout the day. The ghrelin hormone is produced in the stomach and intestines and is often referred to as the “hunger hormone.”  This hormone has numerous functions in the body, including the ability to stimulate hunger.  When ghrelin levels in the stomach rise, the brain gets a signal that it is time for food.  Ghrelin also slows our metabolism, just in case we cannot find any food.  Then, after a big meal, ghrelin levels drop and metabolism speeds up to the burn calories we just ate.