Can water help satisfy inopportune hunger pangs? Expert reveals the truth

Craving for indulgent, cheesy, high-calorie foods while dieting is a common struggle. Giving in to these cravings isn’t an option, so how can you satisfy your hunger pangs and unusual cravings? Fear not, we have a healthy solution for you. But first, let’s delve into the nature of birthmarks. Scientific studies have identified two types of cravings: selective and non-selective cravings. While selective cravings are clear and specific, nonselective cravings are vague and often lead to intense hunger pangs. This is where the problem begins.

Understanding the link between thirst and hunger:

Nutrition consultant Rupali Datta reveals an interesting insight into cravings and hunger pangs. She explains, “About 80 percent of the time, our brain mistakes thirst, which can be triggered by even mild dehydration, for hunger.” How does it happen? Dehydration causes the body to lose electrolytes, disrupting blood flow and the signaling process in the brain. As a result, confusion sets in, and instead of being thirsty, you may feel hungry. Datta adds, “During odd hours of the day, when you’re craving snacks, your brain is actually trying to tell you that you need water, not food.”
Read also: Stay Hydrated at Any Age: Recommended Guidelines for Water Intake Revealed by Dietitian

The Role Of Water In Satisfying Cravings And Hunger Pangs:

Drinking a glass or two of water not only helps maintain proper fluid balance, but also aids in digestion and metabolism, promoting overall body health. Additionally, water can create a feeling of fullness in the stomach, signaling the brain to stop eating and curb hunger. It’s important to note that water doesn’t reduce your food intake, but rather allows your brain to send the appropriate signals to your stomach, helping you eat the right amount of food based on your appetite.

Can drinking water before meals prevent overeating?

Numerous studies from around the world suggest that drinking two glasses of water before a meal and avoiding drinking between meals may have beneficial effects. Let’s explore why. Consuming water before a meal starts the metabolic process and facilitates the secretion of intestinal enzymes, promoting proper digestion. It also provides a feeling of fullness by taking up space in your stomach and sending a signal to your brain that you’re satisfied. This practice helps prevent overeating, particularly when you’re feeling hungry, and helps monitor your daily calorie intake.
Read also: Do you often have intense food cravings? Here are ways to handle them

Health Benefits Of Using Water To Curb Hunger Pangs:

1. Promotes Metabolism: Adequate water intake helps quench thirst and maintain fluid balance in the body. This helps improve blood flow and supports metabolic functions.

2. Helps In Weight Loss: The feeling of fullness achieved after drinking water prevents overeating. As a result, this reduces calorie intake and mitigates weight gain and fat accumulation in the body.

3. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels: Water helps regulate the body’s blood sugar levels, preventing sudden spikes that can occur due to the reaction between the sugar in the food and the secretion of insulin from the pancreas. By slowly breaking down sugars, water promotes a gradual and constant increase in glucose levels.

4. Improve Brain Function: By eliminating toxins and preventing oxidative stress, water facilitates proper circulation of blood and oxygen throughout the body, including the brain. This, in turn, supports optimal brain function and transmission of accurate signals to the body.

The bottom line:

Considering the various benefits mentioned above, we highly recommend maintaining adequate water intake on a daily basis. This way you can help your body function properly, prevent premature cravings and hunger pangs. Remember to consume room temperature water, as chilled water can disrupt the body’s natural temperature balance and hinder metabolism and electrolyte production. As Rupali Datta concludes, “Keeping water at room temperature allows you to fully enjoy its benefits.”

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical advice. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for further information. NDTV assumes no responsibility for this information.