What’s the Least Satisfying Food of All?
Do you eat only when you’re hungry? Find out if you’re sabotaging your diet by snacking when you’re not actually hungry.
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
by Monica Reinagel, M.S., L.D./N.
Recently, we discussed the science of satiation (foods that make you feel full) and satiety (foods that keep you full longer). The idea is that limiting your calorie intake will be a whole lot easier if you don’t feel hungry all the time. But there is a limitation to this approach: It assumes that we only eat when we’re hungry. And we all know that this is not always the case. We often eat simply because we’re bored or stressed or not paying attention. And guess what? Snacking when you’re not actually hungry doesn’t have any effect on your subsequent appetite—it just adds extra
calories to your day.
So, before reaching for a snack between meals, take a moment to assess whether you are actually physically hungry or whether you may be acting on other non-appetite related impulses. If you frequently find yourself genuinely hungry between meals, you might want to review these tips on foods that keep you satisfied and adjust your meal choices accordingly.
Salty snacks from Shutterstock
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.