21 Simple Ways to Curb Your Appetite Naturally for Faster Weight Loss
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If you’re trying to lose weight, you know how challenging it can be to deal with constant hunger. You’re not alone in this struggle. Many adults find weight management difficult, and controlling your appetite is a crucial part of the process.
The good news is that there are natural, effective ways to help you feel fuller and more satisfied, making it easier to stick to your weight loss goals.
When you’re on a weight loss journey, you need to create a calorie deficit, which means eating fewer calories than you burn. This can be tough when hunger keeps nagging at you. That’s where appetite control comes in.
According to a meta-analysis, approximately 42% of adults in general populations reported trying to lose weight at some point. This indicates that weight management is a significant concern for a large portion of the adult population.
By managing your hunger, you can eat less without feeling deprived, avoid overeating and unnecessary snacking, and stay motivated to keep going with your weight loss plan.
In this article, we’ll share 21 simple, natural methods to help you control your appetite. These strategies are backed by science and can make a real difference in your weight loss efforts.
Let’s get started with some practical ways to keep your appetite in check and support your weight loss goals.
Table of Contents
Power Up with Protein and Healthy Fats
Eating more protein and healthy fats is a great way to feel full for longer. These nutrients are much better at satisfying hunger than carbohydrates.
When you include protein and healthy fats in your meals, you’ll likely find yourself feeling satisfied with less food. Try adding lean meats, eggs, beans, soy products, Greek yogurt, avocados, nuts, and seeds to your diet.
These foods not only help control your appetite but also provide essential nutrients your body needs. Aim to include a source of protein and healthy fat in each meal to maximize the appetite-suppressing effect.
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Related: Do You Struggle To Lose Weight? These 11 Filling Foods Can Help
Drink Water Before Meals
Here’s a simple trick that can make a big difference: drink a large glass of water right before you eat. This easy habit helps fill up your stomach, leaving less room for food. It’s a natural way to reduce the amount you eat without feeling deprived.
Plus, sometimes our bodies confuse thirst with hunger, so staying hydrated can help prevent unnecessary snacking. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water about 15-30 minutes before each meal.
You might be surprised at how much it helps control your portions and reduce overall calorie intake.
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Fill Up on Fiber
Fiber is a secret weapon when it comes to feeling full. It stays in your digestive system longer than other nutrients, slowing down digestion and keeping you satisfied for hours.
High-fiber foods also tend to be lower in calories, making them perfect for weight loss. Include plenty of whole grains, beans, apples, avocados, almonds, chia seeds, and vegetables in your diet.
These foods will not only help control your appetite but also provide numerous other health benefits. Aim to gradually increase your fiber intake to avoid digestive discomfort.
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Get Moving Before Meals
Try going for a brisk walk or doing some light exercise before you eat. It might seem odd, but physical activity can actually help reduce your appetite, especially when done before a meal.
Exercise affects hormones that control hunger and fullness, potentially making you feel less hungry. Even a 10-15 minute walk or some quick bodyweight exercises can make a difference.
Plus, you’ll be burning extra calories and improving your overall health at the same time. Just remember to stay hydrated if you’re exercising before eating.
Related: 8 Ways to Build More Exercise into Your Workday
Choose Dark Chocolate
When you’re craving something sweet, reach for dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate or other sugary treats. Dark chocolate is more satisfying and might help suppress your appetite better than other sweets.
The key is to choose a dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, aim for at least 70% cocoa. The intense flavor can help satisfy your sweet tooth with just a small amount. Plus, dark chocolate contains beneficial antioxidants.
Remember to enjoy it in moderation, as it still contains calories. A small square or two is usually enough to curb cravings.
Related: 20 Foods Many People Believe Are Healthy, But They Are Wrong
Practice Mindful Eating
Mindful eating is all about being present and paying full attention to your food while you’re eating. This practice can help you eat less without feeling deprived.
To eat mindfully, slow down and savor each bite. Really taste your food and appreciate its flavors and textures. Put your fork down between bites and chew thoroughly.
Pay attention to how your body feels as you eat, and stop when you feel satisfied, not overly full. Avoid distractions like TV or your phone while eating.
This approach helps you enjoy your food more and be more in tune with your body’s hunger and fullness signals.
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Get Enough Sleep
Sleep plays a huge role in managing your appetite. When you don’t get enough rest, your body produces more of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
This can leave you feeling hungry all day, no matter how much you eat. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your appetite in check. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Avoiding screens before bed can also help improve your sleep quality. When you’re well-rested, you’ll likely find it easier to make healthy food choices and resist cravings.
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Keep Stress in Check
Stress can wreak havoc on your appetite control. Many people turn to food for comfort when they’re feeling overwhelmed. To avoid stress-induced eating, find healthy ways to manage your stress levels.
Try meditation, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day. Deep breathing exercises can quickly calm your mind and body. Yoga combines physical activity with mindfulness, making it great for stress relief.
Regular exercise, spending time in nature, and talking to friends can also help reduce stress. When you’re less stressed, you’re less likely to seek comfort in food.
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Go Green (Tea)
Green tea is a powerhouse when it comes to health benefits, including potential appetite control. It’s packed with compounds called catechins and caffeine, which might help curb your hunger. Plus, it’s calorie-free and offers other health perks.
Try sipping a cup of green tea before meals or throughout the day. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, opt for decaf green tea, which still contains beneficial compounds.
You can enjoy it hot or iced, and experiment with different varieties to find your favorite. Remember, the key is to drink it plain, without adding sugar or cream.
Related: 12 Foods You Can Eat A Lot Of And Not Get Fat, According To a Registered Dietitian
Spice Things Up
Adding some heat to your meals might help you eat less. Spicy foods contain a compound called capsaicin, which can suppress appetite. Try adding chili peppers, hot sauce, or spicy seasonings to your dishes.
Start with small amounts and gradually increase the heat level to suit your taste. Spicy foods can also boost your metabolism slightly, giving you an extra weight loss edge.
If you’re not used to spicy food, start slowly to avoid digestive discomfort. Remember, the goal is to enhance your meals, not make them uncomfortably hot.
Related: 13 Healthy Foods That Most People Refuse To Eat
Chew Gum
When you’re feeling snacky between meals, try chewing some sugar-free gum. This simple trick can help satisfy your urge to eat without adding calories.
The act of chewing sends signals to your brain that you’re eating, which can help reduce cravings. Plus, the minty flavor can make you less likely to want to eat right after.
Choose sugar-free gum to avoid extra calories and protect your teeth. Just be mindful not to rely on gum too much, as excessive chewing can lead to jaw discomfort for some people.
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Slow Down Your Eating
Eating too quickly often leads to overeating because your brain doesn’t have time to register that you’re full. Make a conscious effort to slow down during meals. Take smaller bites and chew your food thoroughly.
Put your fork down between bites to naturally slow your pace. Taking small sips of water while you eat can also help you slow down and feel more satisfied.
Try to make your meals last at least 20 minutes, which is about how long it takes for your brain to receive fullness signals. Eating slowly not only helps control your appetite but also improves digestion and allows you to enjoy your food more.
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Skip the Processed Foods
Highly processed foods are often packed with calories, unhealthy fats, and added sugars, which can make you want to eat more. These foods are designed to be tasty and easy to overeat, making appetite control challenging.
Instead, focus on whole, minimally processed foods. Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods are more filling and nutritious, helping you feel satisfied with fewer calories.
Cooking meals at home using whole ingredients gives you more control over what you’re eating and can make a big difference in managing your appetite.
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Brew Some Black Coffee
A cup of black coffee might help suppress your appetite and give your metabolism a slight boost. The caffeine in coffee can reduce feelings of hunger and increase feelings of fullness.
Just be sure to skip the sugar, cream, and fancy flavorings, which can add a lot of extra calories. If you’re not used to black coffee, start with a small amount and gradually adjust to the taste.
Remember that too much caffeine can lead to jitters or sleep problems, so stick to moderate amounts, especially if you’re sensitive to its effects. Enjoy your coffee earlier in the day to avoid interfering with your sleep.
Related: Brewing A Healthier Coffee Habit
Don’t Skip Breakfast
Starting your day with a healthy breakfast can set the tone for better appetite control throughout the day. A good breakfast helps stabilize your blood sugar and provides energy, reducing the likelihood of mid-morning cravings.
Aim for a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. Try options like oatmeal with nuts and berries, Greek yogurt with fruit, or whole-grain toast with avocado and eggs.
These combinations provide lasting energy and help you avoid overeating later in the day. If you’re not hungry right when you wake up, it’s okay to eat a little later, but try not to wait too long.
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Try Apple Cider Vinegar
Some people find that apple cider vinegar helps them feel fuller. While more research is needed, it might help control blood sugar levels, which can affect hunger.
To try it, mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water and drink it before meals. Start with a small amount and gradually increase to avoid any digestive discomfort. You can also use it in salad dressings or marinades.
Remember, apple cider vinegar is very acidic, so always dilute it and rinse your mouth afterward to protect your tooth enamel. It’s not a magic solution, but it might be worth trying as part of your overall appetite control strategy.
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Use Smaller Plates
This simple trick can have a big impact on how much you eat. Using smaller plates can trick your brain into thinking you’re eating more, helping you feel satisfied with less food.
Try serving your meals on 8-10 inch plates instead of larger dinner plates. This visual illusion can help you naturally reduce your portion sizes without feeling deprived. The same principle applies to bowls and glasses too.
When you use smaller dishes, you’re more likely to serve yourself less food, but your plate still looks full and satisfying. It’s an easy way to cut calories without feeling like you’re on a restrictive diet.
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Sip on Ginger Tea
Ginger has been used for centuries to aid digestion, and it might also help reduce appetite. Try a cup of ginger tea before meals or add fresh ginger to your cooking.
To make ginger tea, steep sliced fresh ginger in hot water for about 10 minutes. You can add a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor. Ginger has a warm, slightly spicy taste that many people find enjoyable.
Besides potentially helping with appetite control, ginger tea is calorie-free and can be a soothing, comforting drink. It’s generally safe for most people, but check with your doctor if you have any health concerns.
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Stay Hydrated All Day
Drinking water throughout the day can help you feel less hungry. Sometimes, what we think is hunger is actually thirst. Aim for at least 8 cups of water a day, more if you’re active or in a hot climate.
Carry a water bottle with you as a reminder to sip regularly. If you find plain water boring, try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries for natural flavor. Herbal teas also count towards your fluid intake.
Staying well-hydrated has many health benefits beyond appetite control, including better skin, improved digestion, and more energy. Make it a habit to drink water with meals and between them to help control your appetite naturally.
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Choose Slow-Digesting Carbs
Not all carbs affect your appetite the same way. Slow-digesting carbs, also known as complex carbs, can help keep you feeling full longer than refined carbs.
Choose foods like oats, quinoa, brown rice, and sweet potatoes. These foods release energy slowly, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent sudden hunger spikes. They’re also rich in fiber, which adds to their filling effect.
Try swapping white bread for whole grain, or white rice for brown rice. These small changes can make a big difference in how satisfied you feel after meals and how well you control your appetite throughout the day.
Related: Tips for Beginning a Gluten Free Diet
Watch Your Portions
Even healthy foods can lead to weight gain if you eat too much. Learning to control your portions is key to managing your appetite and weight. Use measuring cups or your hand as a guide to understand proper portion sizes.
A serving of meat should be about the size of your palm, while a serving of carbs should be about the size of your fist. Pay attention to serving sizes on food labels too. It’s easy to eat more than one serving without realizing it.
Using smaller plates, as mentioned earlier, can also help with portion control. Remember, you can always go back for seconds if you’re truly still hungry, but give your body time to register fullness first.
Related: 24 Delicious Foods That Are (Surprisingly) Much Healthier Than You Think
Your Journey to Better Appetite Control
Mastering your appetite is a game-changer for weight loss success. With these 27 natural strategies, you’re now equipped to take control of your hunger and make your weight loss journey easier.
Remember, small changes can lead to big results. Start incorporating these tips into your daily routine, one at a time. You might be surprised at how quickly you start feeling more in control of your eating habits.
Everyone’s body is different, so pay attention to what works best for you. Mix and match these methods to create your personal appetite-taming toolkit. Stay patient and persistent, appetite control is a skill that improves with practice.
You’ve got this! With these strategies in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to conquering hunger, achieving your weight loss goals, and embracing a healthier lifestyle.
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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.