Stuggling

acstein

My appetite remains high even on days I do not exercise. How do I stay full without going over my calorie count, since I am not getting the extra calories from exercise?

snowsflake

Your metabolism has kicked in and it's burning! When this happens to me I make sure to eat more smaller meals throughout the day and drink a ton of water, because you might also be dehydrated. Your body will sometimes signal hunger when it really wants water. I will also drink a mineral water with fresh lime juice and a little bit of low sugar OJ...the bubbles fill up the tummy too. Also, eat more protein - 3 oz of lean protein is only around 100 calories and it takes longer for the body to process that so you'll stay full longer.

There are so many things that you can do and these are just a few of the things that I try when I feel like eating everything in site! You'll make it through it! :glasses:

bethrs

I have found that fiber fills me up. Try to shoot for things like raw veggies, Lots of green leafy ones that haven't been boiled to mush, and then whole grains and the like (oatmeals, high fiber cereal). I am generally a very hungry lady but put enough veggies in front of my and I can't even finish them. Hope that helps.

KLCole

Hey there! I am currently taking a class where we have been discussing the exact same thing. The doctor (who teaches the class) said that one key to controlling appetite is in the amount of fiber that you are eating. Fiber keeps you feeling full longer. In addition, we have also spent a lot of time on how to maintain our blood sugar within the normal levels which means elminating bad carbs and eating the right carbs in the right quantities. Getting that under control eliminated my cravings within 3 days and it has been wonderful for the energy levels!

Don't know if that helps, but thought I would share what I have learned and what works for me.

Good luck!

maddox22

Veggies are good for that, too--try a big bowl of steamed broccoli, spinach, or other greens. It'll fill you up for very few calories (and lots of fiber and vitamins). This time of year, watermelon and frozen grapes are also great if you want something cold and sweet; green pepper strips or celery sticks are great if you want something cold but not sweet. A mug of veggie or chicken broth (low sodium/low fat) can also be satisfying if you're looking for something more savory.

I've also found that eating a few almonds--say, 8-10--and drinking some water can actually take the edge off hunger for quite a while. 10 almonds have only 70 cal, but the fat and protein in them keep you full for a while. Plus, they're crunchy, which for me makes them more satisfying.

acstein

Thank you all for the tips. I am new to portion control and calorie counting. I have always been bigger for my height, but I have a LOT of muscle so weight was never really a concern for me. However, after my dad had a diabetes scare (I get my build from him, but boy do I have my mother's hips...lol), I became concerned, that I needed to work on whatever I could lose. My grandfather has type 2 diabetes and after looking into the health of the rest of my family, we are all a bit overweight and some are morbidly obese (I'm talking 350-400 lbs). This process is even harder considering my husband doesn't need to be on a diet and is concerned that he will lose out on enjoying food if I put him on one simply because I am on one. Every little bit helps and I appreciate the time you put in to responding....

thanks again!!