Maybe you know this: You get a craving for sweets or snacks – and escaping the feeling of hunger is often not easy. However, nature has a few things ready to curb your appetite. You can find out here which natural foods help against food cravings.

Food cravings: hunger and appetite – what’s the difference?
Natural appetite suppressants can help us to get a grip on food cravings in a healthy diet. In many situations it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between real hunger and just appetite. Learning to recognize these two factors in your own body can be very helpful – especially
Hunger is like a natural alarm clock for our body. It gives the signal that the body’s energy balance should be balanced. In order to avoid deficiency symptoms and malnutrition, hunger gives the signal that food should be eaten.
However, when it comes to appetite, things are different: they are actually sensory stimuli that trigger a craving for something tasty. However, appetite can also be related to psychological factors. If you’re trying to lose weight and are struggling with food cravings, some foods that suppress appetite can help.
These foods are natural appetite suppressants
Of course, appetite suppressants do not automatically ensure that the kilos tumble. But you help to get a better grip on food cravings and perhaps also to deal with the topic of nutrition more consciously. If you no longer indulge your constant appetite, you will automatically eat less. Important: If you want to lose weight, you should ensure a moderate calorie deficit. Malnutrition can lead to a yo-yo effect. The following six natural helpers can help you with your appetite attacks:
1. Oatmeal
Oatmeal gives you a fiber boost. The low-fat flakes swell up, fill the stomach and increase the feeling of satiety. A delicious breakfast bowl made of oatmeal in the morning can ensure that you stay full longer – and thus have less appetite.
2. Lentils
When it comes to “dietary fiber”, lentils should not be missing from the diet plan. They have an effect similar to oatmeal and increase the feeling of satiety. This means that you will not only be full for a few hours, but also eat smaller portions at best.
3. Proteins
We must also not forget a certain appetite suppressant: proteins in general. A high-protein diet is known to be recommended for those who want to lose weight. Proteins are therefore also a frequently researched area in science. In 2006, scientists at London University College discovered that proteins have a positive effect on feelings of hunger and satiety.
4. Ginger
Ginger is not a popular superfood for nothing – the tuber stands out with its special and unique taste. However, the different flavors also have a nice side effect: They stimulate several zones on the tongue, which is said to reduce appetite. Incidentally, the pungent substances of the spice plant also have a digestive effect.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint, on the other hand, is said to contain essential oils that are supposed to satisfy the craving for something sweet. Drinking a cup of peppermint tea can help with cravings. Some sufferers also swear by chewing gum at such moments.
6. Chili

If you like to eat spicy anyway, then this food will suit you. Because chili is also supposed to be an appetite suppressant, which with its sharp taste ensures that you eat less overall. A study by Purdue University shows that cayenne pepper can curb appetite – the participants had less desire for greasy, sweet and salty foods.
Synthetic appetite suppressants can be dangerous
The presented natural appetite suppressants are not dangerous as long as you do not have intolerance or allergies. However, they are not a panacea either, but an incentive to use them in a conscious and balanced diet. Also, everyone’s body reacts differently to food. So, experiment to see which appetite suppressants work best for you.
With synthetically produced appetite suppressants the situation is different – side effects are possible. The Hamburg consumer advice center completely advises against taking appetite-suppressing pills and powders. The chemical-based appetite suppressants can even pose health risks. For example, the active ingredient phenolphthalein is carcinogenic, while the active ingredient sibutramine can increase the risk of a stroke and heart attack.
It is better to use the well-known home remedies that have the potential to stop the nasty cravings. For example, it is also advisable to drink a glass of water, herbal tea or a low-calorie broth if you get hungry. Sometimes just a distraction helps – a walk, a nice book or the outstanding household chores.
Conclusion
Some natural appetite suppressants can help prevent nasty food cravings. Although they are not an all-purpose remedy, they can pave the way to a healthy and conscious diet. It is particularly important to recognize from your own body when you are hungry and when you are simply hungry. If you learn this difference, losing weight is much easier.