Not only can this be potentially damaging for your metabolism, but it's also unnecessary since feeling full is less about how much you eat and rather the quality of the food you consume. With the right foods—and the right planning—you can stay satiated throughout the day.
Here are some tips on how to keep the tummy growl at bay, while staying on top of your nutrition goals.
1. Pack a snack.
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The key for even the busiest people is to keep high-protein, nonperishable snacks on hand, like nuts, trail mixes, dried fruits, beef jerky and peanut butter packets.
You should have at least some of these items put away at your desk, your car and in a purse or backpack.
2. Prep food ahead of time.
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Perhaps you've heard legends of those who meal prep for the entire week on Sundays, but you haven't gotten into the habit yourself. Fear not! Meal prep can be as simple as chopping up veggies for that crockpot recipe you're going to make mid-week or setting up your snacks so that they're ready to grab and go.
3. Savor your food.
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Studies show that eating slower and more mindfully may help you lose weight, since you tend to feel less hungry after sitting down and savoring a meal versus scarfing it down while distracted.
Go ahead and take that lunch break instead of eating at your desk or sit down at the table instead of planting yourself in front of the TV.
4. Switch it up with spices and variety.
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Boredom with your food can also make you hungrier. Try incorporating new or exotic foods into your weekly diet—this is part of the joy of eating.
Spices also help you feel fuller without packing in any extra calories. Start slowly by adding in one new spice each month to your cooking, and you may just discover a whole new world of flavor.
5. Increase your physical activity.
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Contrary to popular belief, light to moderate exercise does not make you significantly hungrier—it can actually curb your hunger. Even a short walk at lunchtime or in the evening after dinner can make a big difference in your overall health and help keep your need to snack in control.
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