We all have experienced that feeling of hunger even though we have just eaten. This could be simply because the food was not nutritious or did not contain the right nutrients that keep us fuller for longer.
However, you don’t have to worry about living in a constant state of hunger as there are certain foods that will keep you feeling full for hours after eating. In this article, we will explore five such foods that will help to keep you fuller for longer throughout the day.
1. Avocado
Avocados are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Studies have shown that consuming avocados can help you feel fuller for longer.
They contain monounsaturated fats that can increase the production of a hormone called cholecystokinin which tells your brain that you are full. Additionally, the high fiber content in avocados slows down digestion, keeping you feeling full and satisfied for a longer period of time.
2. Oats
Oats are a great source of slow-release carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. They are also low in calories, making them the perfect breakfast food to keep you full throughout the morning.
The high fiber content in oats slows down digestion and helps to maintain steady blood sugar levels, keeping hunger at bay. Studies have found that people who eat oats for breakfast feel fuller for longer and consume fewer calories throughout the day as compared to those who eat other breakfast foods.
3. Legumes
Legumes such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas are high in fiber and protein. These nutrients keep your stomach feeling full and satisfied for a longer period of time, reducing the need to snack between meals.
Legumes also contain resistant starch, a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion and increases satiety. Studies have found that people who consume legumes regularly have lower body weight and BMI as compared to those who consume fewer legumes.
4. Nuts
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. The combination of these nutrients makes nuts an excellent snack to keep you feeling full between meals.
The healthy fats in nuts help to slow down digestion and also reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks. Studies have shown that incorporating nuts into your diet can lead to greater weight loss and reduced hunger as compared to a diet without nuts.
5. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, both of which promote satiety. The high protein content in Greek yogurt reduces the production of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger.
Additionally, the calcium in Greek yogurt can reduce hunger by increasing the breakdown of fat in cells. Studies have found that consuming Greek yogurt as a snack can help to control appetite and reduce snacking throughout the day.
Conclusion
Feeling hungry is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to be a constant occurrence. Choosing foods that are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for a longer period of time.
Incorporating the five foods mentioned above into your diet can help to control appetite, reduce snacking, and promote weight loss.