6th April 2013
By Iryna Ostapets
Guest Writer for Wake Up World
Weight loss is one of the most common personal challenges among today’s generation, with a majority of people in many developed countries suffering from obesity.
The abundance of poor food choices and a sedentary lifestyle are the culprits of our health problems. There are a lot of tasty foods that can actually increase the body’s appetite. But in order to reduce weight, we have to burn more calories than we eat.
So how do we quench those hunger pangs? By choosing foods that help to quench your hunger.
You’ve heard about foods that suppress your appetite. It doesn’t mean that these foods can damage your health; in fact many are healthy, low in calories, fulfill a bunch of nutritional needs, and quench your hunger for hours.
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Apples
They contain many healthy benefits. Apples can help to lose weight, balance blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of heart diseases, reduce cholesterol and support teeth and bone density. You’ve heard the proverb: An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Apples are crammed with fiber that helps you to feel full for a long time and prevents you from over-eating. They are a good idea for lunched and breakfasts. Adding apples into smoothies, oatmeal and salads can help you to increase your intake and give you more energy.
Oatmeal
Scientists find that eating oatmeal can reduce cholesterol, protect against heart disease, cancer and improve immune system. It is on the list of the highest protein levels of whole grain. Due to high fiber content and low level of fat, oatmeal will make you feel good and full as it provides enough energy for a long time. If you add some fruits, flaxseeds, berries, nuts and low fat milk you can maximize more health benefits for your body.
Water
Before any meals it is better to drink a glass of pure water as it helps to tell your brain that the stomach is already full. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water is recommended for weight loss and healthy living as it is a zero calorie drink. Try to drink more water instead of sweet beverages, soda and other carbonated drinks that only trigger appetite.
Green Tea
It contains many antioxidants benefits that can control food cravings. Green tea hampers fat digestion, enhances the metabolism and provides you with energy. Try to drink 2-3 cups of green tea per day.
Vegetable soups
Many dietician will tell that vegetable soups are important and useful dietary tools. Vegetable soup has low calories and can be used to suppress your appetite due to its high water content. It is better to make soups by yourself than buying canned soups, so you know your soup is free of additives. Make a batch of soup, store it in containers and consume it when you feel hungry.
Salads
Vegetable and fruit salads with dressings such as lemon, olive oil or apple vinegar are a great addition to a healthy diet. Try to eat salads before your meal as it will assist to avoid hunger cravings. The salads have low amounts of calories and high water content. Add lettuces, tomatoes, cucumbers, cabbages, carrots and radishes, or to make your salad a complete meal you can use beef, chicken, beans or cheese for protein.
Nuts
Eating a small amount of nuts can make you feel full longer. Nuts are high in calories, that’s why only a small quantity of nuts is recommended to reduce your hunger. Nuts contain substantial fatty acids, magnesium, iron, calcium and protein. Try to avoid salted and roasted nuts in favor of raw and unsalted nuts.
There are many healthy foods that can help to suppress hunger. Stick to eating only healthy foods such as fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans and lean meat. Consume enough amount of water, eat small portions of meal and slowly.
Article Sources:
http://www.naturalnews.com/003550_appetite_control_food_cravings
http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/12/02/appetite-suppressants
http://www.wikihow.com/Decrease-Your-Appetite
http://shine.yahoo.com/healthy-living/eat-suppress-appetite
About the Author:
Iryna Ostapets is a health writer, blogger and health advocate who aims to help people achieve and maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle. Passionate about healthy living and sport, she writes about natural health, nutrition, fitness, health tips and beauty at http://www.raipharmacies.com. An experienced Medical Writer, she has a Master’s Degree in English and advanced training in the medical field. Iryna continues to earn education certificates from the Australasian Medical Writers Association (AMWA).
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Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of Wake Up World or its staff.
