Do you feel the urge to eat even when you’re not physically hungry? Chances are you have an increased appetite. And that is not necessarily a good thing if you’re trying to lose weight. Increased appetite can make it virtually impossible to maintain healthy eating habits.
But before you blame your genetics, realize that habits like smoking and marijuana dependency increase appetite. Your appetite may also increase if you suffer from: diabetes, hyperthyroidism, low blood sugar, depression, anxiety and nutrient deficiency.
Breaking these habits or treating any condition you may have will definitely reduce your appetite. But if that still doesn’t work, here are 8 natural appetite suppressants you should add to your diet.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Apple cider vinegar can suppress your appetite and reduce sugar cravings. According to this study, acetate acid (found in apple cider vinegar) helps suppress parts of the brain that control appetite, which consequently leads to low calorie intake.
CAYENNE PEPPER
Spicing up your food with cayenne can reduce your appetite. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a compound which has been proven to reduce appetite and promote fat burning.
ALMONDS
As I mentioned earlier, nutrient deficiency can increase your appetite. In fact, magnesium deficiency is known to trigger sugar cravings.
Almonds are rich in magnesium, vitamin E and antioxidants. They also contain fiber which helps control hunger.
GREEN TEA
You can’t go wrong with green tea—it has so many health benefits. Drinking it every day can help you reduce food intake and drop pounds.
A 12-week study found that taking green tea extract lowers levels of ghrelin (a hunger hormone). Further research shows that green tea contains compounds which promote weight loss.
WATER
Drink water every time you desire to eat. It’s very common for people to confuse thirst for hunger. You should actually make a habit of drinking a glass of water before every meal—it’ll help you eat less.
GINGER
You probably know the popular benefits of ginger, but did you know that it can suppress your appetite?
Research shows that gingerol, a bioactive compound in fresh ginger, has appetite suppressing properties. Researchers say that intake of gingerol supplement controls leptin levels and increases satiety.
AVOCADO
Avocado contains oleic acid. This acid triggers production of a compound called oleoylethanolamide in the small intestines. Studies show that this compound reduces hunger and increases feelings of fullness.
APPLES
If I were to choose a snack everyone should eat regularly, it would be apples. Apples contain pectin, a compound which has been proven to prevent blood sugar spikes. I can’t forget to mention that they’re also very filling and low in calories.
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