Snacking is a habit we all indulge in, whether it be from hunger, thirst or just plain boredom.
Healthy snacks are recommended to keep energy levels up through the day, but when it comes to weight loss, excessive grazing on junk food can put a dent in slimming efforts. While the thought of giving it up entirely can be daunting, one health expert has shared his tips to keep the cravings at bay.
Diet guru Michael Mosley has shared some nifty health tips to give up snacking - and one urges people to eat more of a surprising food group. According to the creator of the Fast 800 diet, eating the right fats is "crucial" to curb appetites and keep you away from the snack cupboard.
But the expert stressed that such fats must be from "good" sources like avocados, olive oil nuts and fish. Unfortunately, this means saturated fats found in most tasty junk treats must still be avoided.
Posting on the Fast 800 Instagram page on Tuesday, Michael said: "Consuming healthy fats curbs the appetite and slows the rate at which the stomach empties - delaying hunger signals. Fats are crucial for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A,D,E and K."
Mosley also says another key to stop snacking is staying hydrated. Thirst can often be mistaken for hunger and drinking plenty of fluids can also keep you fuller for longer - so keep a bottle or glass by your side to sip regularly.
Finally, slimmers looking to avoid snacks should eat plenty of fibre rich foods. Not only does it expand quicker in the stomach, ensuring feelings of fullness, Mosley states that fibre also induces the release of the "PYY" chemical in the stomach - which reduces appetite.
Examples of fibre rich foods include wholegrain breads, vegetables, and skinned fruits.
Michael Mosley has previously spoken on the importance of protein in weight loss, as both go "hand in hand". He even recommends eating more of the macronutrient as his "top tip" for shedding pounds.
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