One of the most frustrating things about trying to lose weight is dieting, especially when the diet isn’t working. Some diets are great, don’t get me wrong, but others just make the body feel as though it is starving. Believe it or not, under-eating can actually put your body into starvation mode, and cause it to store your existing fat, making it extremely difficult to lose weight.
You also don’t want to over-eat, because then you’re just adding on those calories and pounds. The most effective way to lose weight is to eat healthy food in small portions throughout the day, instead of one big meal at night. Keep reading to learn 10 ways to suppress your appetite, and if you incorporate these tricks into your daily routine, you’ll be shedding those pounds in no time!
Rule #1 Eat a Healthy Breakfast.
The first thing you should consider changing in your life when you’re ready to start losing weight is incorporating a healthy breakfast into your morning routine. A healthy breakfast will burn off quickly, and give you the energy you need to start your morning off right. Breakfast can give you the motivation and energy to work out, or cook something healthy. If you skip breakfast you’ll likely be starving by lunch time, and when you’re starving there’s a better chance you’ll eat something quick and unhealthy, like fast food.
Rule #2 Drink 1 Glass of Water Each Hour.
When you wake up in the morning, you should have a glass of water first. Drinking water boosts your metabolism, and that’s something you want in order to lose weight! Drinking water sends signals to your brain telling you that you are full, so by filling your tummy with water you are naturally suppressing your appetite. Water also removes waste from the body. Drinking an adequate amount of water reduces water retention in your body, and sheds those pounds of water weight, too.
Rule #3 Catch Up On Your ZZZ’s.
Poor sleep has been linked to weight gain and higher rates of obesity. Studies show that lack of sleep can also increase your appetite. A hormone called Ghrelin signals hunger in the brain. Levels are low after you eat, and high before you eat. When you don’t get an adequate amount of sleep, your body releases more Ghrelin leaving you hungrier than you should be. This makes sleep an awesome natural appetite suppressant.
Rule #4 Drink Black Coffee.
Consuming 2-3 cups of black coffee per day will effectively suppress your appetite. Coffee increases your metabolism and helps you burn fat. Remember that this will only work if you don’t overdo it, and if you avoid adding sugar, creamer and other fats to your coffee.
Rule #5 Drink Green Tea.
Green tea offers so many health benefits as is, but add weight loss to that list and it becomes almost magical. Green tea reduces your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. Much like coffee, green tea boosts your metabolism helping your body burn fat. Make a cup of green tea around 10:00 am to keep you full and energetic until lunch, and another cup in the evening around 9:00 pm to suppress your appetite so you don’t go snooping around for some late-night munchies.
Rule #6 Eat Foods Rich In Fiber.
Research shows that adding more fiber into your diet can actually help you lose weight. Soluble fiber reduces the levels of hunger hormones, and reduces your appetite making it a natural appetite suppressant. The next time you’re out grocery shopping look for these fiber-rich foods: sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, flaxseed, oatmeal, and fruits.
Rule #7 Chew Gum.
But not just any gum. Sugar-free gum is a great simple way to suppress your appetite. Essentially you are “tricking” your stomach into thinking that you’re eating food, and chewing on something reduces your hunger.
Rule #8 Stay Minty Fresh- Brush Your Teeth!
It’s true, when you brush your teeth in the morning even water can taste bad. So you kind of wait around a little while before eating or drinking, am I right? Even though it’s temporary, brushing your teeth and using mouthwash can actually suppress your appetite. Another reason to brush your teeth twice a day!
Rule #9 Do Some Intense Cardio.
High intensity cardio will not only help you lose weight in the obvious way, but did you know that research shows that your appetite will be suppressed up to 2 hours after your workout?
Rule #10 Buy Healthy Foods That Suppress Appetite Naturally!
There are a few things to remember when you shop for food. If your plan is to suppress your appetite, and begin a healthy diet to lose weight, stock up that shopping cart with food that’s good for you. Soup is excellent, but make sure that you’re including mostly solid foods as they can help you feel full for longer. Fruits such as apples and apricots, flaxseed, and pine nuts are great snacks. Vegetables, eggs full of protein, and fish are all natural appetite suppressants. You’ll thank me for this one- treat yourself to dark chocolate, as it is healthy in moderation and a great appetite suppressant!
Abide by these 10 rules, and you’ll be on the road to a much happier, healthier, and slimmer YOU!