Hey all… I’ve been trying to lose weight for a couple of months now, but haven’t dropped a pound. I’m around 250 lbs, 6’2.5” tall, and my appetite matches my size. I’m doing strength training 4-5 times a week, cardio 3 times a week, and getting stronger, but I know I can’t outrun my diet.
I’d appreciate any tips on foods or recipes that are low in calories but filling. I want to keep my hunger in check without feeling like I’m starving all the time. What’s worked for you?
Try drinking a lot of water with your meals. I know it sounds strange, but if you take breaks to drink water, it can help you feel fuller.
Check out forums or groups focused on high-volume eating for ideas. Also, with all the exercise you’re doing, lean proteins are your friend.
It’s okay to feel a bit hungry when you’re trying to lose weight. Sometimes, we get used to always feeling full, and that has to shift. Foods high in protein and fiber help, but honestly, nothing fills me up like a baked potato.
I’m a big guy too with a similar appetite. Protein and fats keep me full longer. For breakfast, I go with a smoothie of Greek yogurt, frozen fruit, flax seeds, and almond milk. Lunch might be a ham and turkey sandwich with lots of tomato or a salad with shredded chicken. I eat hearty dinners; hamburgers, chicken stew, or a club sandwich with bacon. For snacks, I go with apples, celery, or cucumber. I keep my protein high, and it really helps.
Focus on protein and fiber. Leafy greens, veggies, and some fruit can really help fill you up.
I had this issue when I was on certain meds. If you’re on any medication, talk to your doctor. It might be affecting your hunger.
I’m also tall (6’4”) and I was around 250 lbs. I had to get used to eating smaller portions and cutting out empty calories like soda. Swapping sugary drinks for iced tea or coffee without sugar helped, and so did dropping candy and cutting back on ice cream. You might have a good amount of muscle, but focus on reducing extra fat.
Knowing your age would help. I was at 250 lbs at 30, but at 51, my eating habits are totally different and my weight’s gone up to 310.
Discipline is key. I have binge eating disorder, and I know how hard it is to feel full. I make sure my meals are balanced in volume and nutrition, and if I’m not full, I still walk away from the table. Training my mind and body to accept smaller portions has made a big difference.
How many veggies do you eat? I make a huge coleslaw with 300g of cabbage and 300g of carrots with a bit of low-fat mayo. After that, plus some protein, I’m good for hours.
Have you tried intermittent fasting? It can really help with portion control.
Eat to feel satisfied, not stuffed. I go with oats, fruit, potatoes, and chicken. Potatoes and oatmeal are very filling, and adding fruits, veggies, and lean proteins helps keep calories low.
Drinking water before meals can really make a difference. Give it a shot.
What do you usually eat for breakfast and lunch? Details might help us give better advice.
Load up on vegetables. They’re low-calorie and can be very filling.
You might need more protein in your meals if you’re still hungry. It’s key to feeling full.
How much protein do you actually eat each day? It could be a big factor.
Joey said:
How much protein do you actually eat each day? It could be a big factor.
I’m at 150g-200g of protein daily.
Sometimes, I finish my meal and wait a few minutes to see if I still feel hungry. If I do, I’ll have a yogurt or some water. I used to eat until I was painfully full, and it was hard to break that habit, but it got easier over time.