The Hunger Games

by Kris Pitcher

Many dieters complain about being hungry, all the time. Now, there's a difference between being aware that you may be becoming hungry...and feeling like you are starving.

There are some things we can do to fight the hunger games. Getting enough fiber is one of the first things we can do. Women should be getting 25 gms per day. It's easy to take a fiber supplement, just look for one without added sugar. You're looking for psyllium husk. If it tastes like dirt, you've got the right stuff.

I'm kidding, it doesn't have to taste like dirt. They're making more advanced ones and if you don't mind parting with a few more dollars there are some great ones. One note of caution - increase your fiber intake slowly.

Our next tool in fighting the hunger games is frequency. We want to make sure we are eating every 2 to 3 hours. Those meals should be a nice mix of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and lean protein.

Carbs alone will leave you hungry. It's the combination of nutrients that creates the power in keeping hunger at bay. We feel fuller longer, and maintain a stable blood sugar level.

Finally, stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water and drinking herbal teas, or green tea, between meals will help you feel full. Diet sodas, while they are cool and refreshing, can actually lead us to feel more hungry because of their overly sweet taste. Keep it pure, you'll lose the bloat too.

Keep yourself feeling full, or fuller, with these tips. Fiber, frequency, nutrient combination and hydration are great ways to help us stay full even when we're dieting.