Appetite Suppressants: Everything You Need To Know
If you’re on a weight loss journey and struggling with overeating or an uncontrollable appetite, you may be interested in finding ways to suppress your appetite. Appetite suppressants can be a helpful tool in reducing excessive hunger and making healthier food choices to aid in weight loss. While medication-based appetite suppressants are available, did you know you can also naturally suppress your appetite through food choices? In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of appetite suppressants, including how they work, natural food sources, and alternative methods.
What Influences Your Appetite?
Knowing what determines our appetite levels is essential to understand how appetite suppressants work. The ghrelin hormone plays a significant role in signalling hunger to the brain. Increased ghrelin levels can lead to heightened appetite, resulting in overconsumption and fat storage. Additionally, ghrelin can affect sleep patterns, reward-seeking behaviour, and our preference for high-fat diets. If you’ve been dieting, your ghrelin levels may be higher, making it harder to stick to your healthy eating plan.
To regain control over your appetite, finding ways to regulate your ghrelin levels is crucial. Both natural appetite suppressants, found in certain food choices, and medicated appetite suppressants, such as injections or pills, can help support your weight loss journey.
So, What Exactly Are Appetite Suppressants?
Appetite suppressants are typically medications that aid in weight loss by reducing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness. They work by curbing your appetite, making it easier to consume fewer calories and maintain a calorie deficit. These medications can effectively control appetite and lead to weight loss if used correctly. However, it’s also possible to suppress appetite through diet and lifestyle choices.
To effectively use appetite suppressants, it’s essential to identify the underlying causes of your increased hunger. Addressing these factors allows you to determine the most effective appetite-suppressant methods for your needs.
How Do Appetite Suppressants Work?
Depending on their active ingredients, medication-based appetite suppressants can work in various ways. Most of these medications target neurotransmitters in the brain to regulate hunger signals. For example, appetite suppressants may affect the levels of certain chemicals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which are known to reduce hunger. Other appetite suppressants slow digestion, affecting insulin levels and decreasing feelings of hunger.
But did you know that you can also incorporate food-based appetite suppressants into your diet? Many natural sources of appetite suppressants can be gained through specific food choices. High-fiber diets and protein-rich foods, for instance, can help you feel fuller for longer. Additionally, there are various herbal options available to suppress your appetite naturally.
Natural Appetite Suppressants
While medication can be an effective option for reducing appetite, making certain food choices can also help curb cravings and reduce food intake. Here are some natural ways to suppress your appetite and support your weight loss goals:
Increase Your Protein Intake
Including more protein in your diet can help regulate your appetite. Proteins are known to satisfy hunger better than carbohydrates. Add lean meats, eggs, and Greek yogurt to your meals to increase your protein intake.
Drink Water Before Each Meal
Drinking a glass of water 30 minutes before a meal can suppress appetite and effectively reduce calorie intake. Aim for an average of 1.5-2 litres of water daily for the best results.
Include High-Fibre Foods
Fibre has been linked to lower body weight because it keeps you full for longer. Fibre-rich foods include almonds, leafy greens, apples, avocados, and whole grains.
Reduce Stress Levels
Stress often leads to comfort eating, hindering your weight loss goals. Find alternative activities to cope with stress, such as journaling, taking brisk walks, or talking to loved ones.
Practice Mindful Eating
Being mindful of your eating environment is crucial to prevent overeating. Avoid distractions like suspenseful TV shows while eating. Take your time to savour each bite, pay attention to your food choices, and enjoy the company you’re with. This practice can help slow down consumption and prevent overeating.
Foods That Act as Appetite Suppressants
In addition to making lifestyle changes, certain dietary changes can help reduce your appetite. Consider incorporating the following foods into your diet or making simple switches to promote appetite suppression and aid in weight loss:
- Having 2 grams of yerba mate before exercise can reduce appetite and increase energy and focus.
- Green tea and coffee contain caffeine, which helps suppress appetite and aid in fat burning.
- When eaten in moderation, healthy fats like avocado, almonds and eggs can increase feelings of fullness.
- Legumes such as chickpeas and lentils have appetite suppression capabilities and have been associated with lower body weight and reduced risk of obesity.
- Adequate water intake can make a significant difference in appetite control, as well as digestion and skin health.
By making these small changes, you can experience significant benefits in your weight loss journey and feel more energetic overall. These dietary switches can be particularly helpful for individuals with digestive and kidney diseases who may not want the digestive changes often associated with medication-based appetite suppressants.
More Ways to Suppress Appetite
If you’ve reached a point in your weight loss journey where diet and exercise alone aren’t yielding the desired results, you may be considering alternative methods to suppress your appetite and reduce food intake. While healthy food choices and regular exercise are essential for weight loss, it might be time to explore weight loss medication.
When seeking appetite suppressants, opt for medications that curb hunger and increase metabolic function. With numerous diet pills and fads on the market, it can take time to make an informed decision. Seeking advice from a trusted healthcare provider and gaining access to prescription medications ensures you’ll achieve the results you’ve been working hard for.
My Weight Loss Clinic offers medical weight loss solutions to patients across Australia through telehealth consultations. Our program combines prescription medications, health coaching, and hands-on support to help you make lifestyle changes that support long-term weight loss. The initial appointment is bulk billed by Medicare, ensuring high-quality care at an affordable price.
Your Path to Healthier Eating and Weight Management
Appetite suppressants can be valuable tools in managing hunger and making healthier food choices during your weight loss journey. Whether you opt for medication-based suppressants or incorporate natural appetite suppressants into your diet, finding a method that works best for you is key. Regulating your appetite can create a calorie deficit and achieve your weight loss goals.
Remember, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss program or introducing appetite suppressants. With the proper guidance and support, you can effectively suppress your appetite and take control of your weight management.
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