Diet Foods That Make You Feel Full

Sep 2, 2010 | By Katie Leigh

Foods that make you feel fuller longer can aid your dieting efforts. According MayoClinic.com, eating foods that have fewer empty calories can help you lose weight. This is because you can consume a larger portion, while still sticking to your diet plan. These foods also tend to contain filling fiber, protein and water that keep your stomach from growling.

Fiber-Rich Foods

Fiber-rich foods are bulky enough to fill your stomach and are processed quite slowly by your body. This means that when consumed as part of a meal or snack, fiber-rich foods will generally keep you going for a few hours. Nutritionist Joy Bauer, author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Total Nutrition," says that foods containing soluble fiber are best because they take longer to digest than foods containing insoluble fiber. Examples of fiber-rich foods that will make you feel full include white and sweet potatoes, brown rice, beans, seeds and oatmeal.

High-Protein Foods

High-protein foods give you slow-burning energy that won't leave you starving during or after physical activities. According to "Women's Health," University of Washington researchers determined that those who eat a diet made up of 30 percent protein-rich foods consume an average of 441 fewer calories daily than those who eat a 15-percent protein diet. Stick to relatively lean proteins if you're dieting. Good choices include canned tuna packed in water, eggs and skinless chicken breasts. Small amounts of lean beef can be OK as well.

Water-Dense Foods

Foods that contain a lot of water will keep you feeling full. That's because while these items are low-calorie, they are high-volume. They also help keep you hydrated, which curbs hunger pangs. Often, the growling sensation or emptiness that many people associate with hunger is a sign of dehydration. Fresh fruits and vegetables are your best bet in terms of low-calorie, water-dense foods. Try items such as carrots, celery, grapefruit, melons, greens, pears and apples to start.