What Is Increased Appetite? Increased appetite is when you want to eat much more often or in larger quantities than your body requires. This may or may not result in weight gain. Your hunger should be relieved when you eat. It is normal to have an increased appetite after physical exertion, but this is generally alleviated after eating. However, a significantly increased appetite over a prolonged period could be a symptom of a serious illness, such as diabetesor hyperthyroidism. If you are experiencing excessive hunger that is ongoing, make an appointment to see your doctor. Your doctor may refer to this condition as hyperphagia or polyphagia. Treatment for increased appetite will depend on its underlying cause.