If you're looking for a way to control your hunger, don't reach for artificial appetite suppressants. Instead, look no further than your mind and your pantry to cure those afternoon hunger pangs. Natural appetite suppressants with the least side effects lie either in time-tested alternative and complementary therapies or in substances available in nature. Be careful, though, as except for air, no substance is entirely devoid of side effects. As with starting any new treatments, consult your doctor first.
Water
The signs of dehydration, such as irritability, headache and concentration difficulty, may be mistakenly perceived as hunger as opposed to thirst. Hunger pangs start when the body is using more calories than are readily available in the bloodstream. The stomach has the power to turn off these signals when it is filled. At least initially, the stomach cannot differentiate what is filling it -- only that it is being filled. Drinking water throughout the day maintains hydration and may decrease hunger pangs. The University of Iowa encourages 10 to 15 eight-ounce glasses daily dependent on body weight, environment and activity level.
Fiber
Multi-million dollar pharmaceutical companies would hate to hear that a potent appetite suppressant is available in the produce section of the grocery store. Forget the diet pills and quick weight loss products -- buy some apples, carrots and lettuce as natural appetite suppressants without side effects. Fiber is a natural filler containing minimal calories, and actually burns calories throughout the digestive process. Those who dislike fruits and veggies can purchase fiber tablets, such as psyllium, to take for satiety. Just remember, fiber tablets are devoid of water content and can lead to constipation if they are not taken with plenty of water.
The Mind
The human mind is a powerful tool and the culprit for that appetite flare-up. Years of evolution have not changed the fact that the body continues to protect itself from starvation by begging for food with hunger pangs the minute blood sugars drop. Those wishing to suppress their appetite can use the powerful appetite suppressant of their brain with the assistance of some complementary and alternative methods. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that serotonin, a natural appetite suppressant, is released through acupuncture sessions. Yoga and meditation stimulate a meditative state, which can benefit emotional overeaters who eat despite appetite.
Herbal Precautions
Although they are natural, even herbs can have side effects in certain people. Supplements, including herbs in any form, are not regulated or endorsed by the FDA to treat any condition, including obesity. The market is flooded with quick weight-loss and appetite suppressants including products containing hoodia, bitter orange, chromium and hydroxycitric acid. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that these supplements have not received enough long-term testing to determine if they are safe for long-term human consumption. In fact, chromium can cause heart damage with long-term use.
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