These days I’ve been so hungry and I never seem to be full so I keep eating. What do you suggest I do to get full and not be so hungry all the time?
A lot of teens tell us they feel hungry all the time. Some teens, like those who are very active and those who are growing, have higher energy needs than others and may be more likely to feel extra hungry. The trick to not feeling hungry all of the time is to eat filling foods.
Protein and fiber are the most filling nutrients, so make sure you get some protein and fiber at all meals and snacks. Protein is found in meats, fish, eggs, milk, yogurt, cheese, beans, nuts, peanut butter, hummus, soy foods like tofu, and other vegetarian foods like veggie burgers. Fiber is found in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
Try to include more protein and fiber and see if your hunger improves. For example, instead of having a plain bagel and juice for breakfast, try having whole grain toast with peanut butter and a banana or a whole wheat English muffin with an egg and fruit. Instead of having a non-filling snack such as cookies or chips, try having hummus with whole wheat pita and baby carrots or a half of a turkey and cheese sandwich on whole wheat bread.
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