1st June 2023,Mumbai: Cravings for food can be intense desires to indulge in certain types of food that are often rich in fat, sugar, or salt. These cravings can arise from various factors such as hormonal changes, stress, monotony, or lack of sleep. While food cravings are a common occurrence, they can become problematic if they occur frequently and disrupt a balanced diet.
One effective strategy to combat cravings is by incorporating sufficient amounts of protein and fiber into your meals. Protein, a vital macronutrient, plays a crucial role in regulating hunger and appetite. Research has shown that increasing protein intake can help reduce the urge to snack between meals or gravitate towards calorie-dense foods.
The reason behind this Is that protein helps slow down the digestion process, allowing you to feel satiated for a longer duration. Additionally, fiber also plays a pivotal role in promoting satiety and curbing cravings. Unlike simple carbohydrates, fiber takes longer to digest, thus delaying the release of sugar into the bloodstream. This prevents sharp fluctuations in blood sugar levels that can trigger cravings for sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods.
Renowned nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary, through her engaging Instagram reel, enlightens us on this topic. She emphasizes that including adequate protein and fiber in your previous meal can significantly help in curbing cravings.
To summarize, adopting a diet rich in these essential nutrients can effectively reduce cravings, foster healthier eating habits, stabilize blood sugar levels, promote a feeling of fullness, and diminish appetite.