A study by scientists at Vanderbilt University in the U.S. revealed a simple and effective way to help reduce cravings for sweets and fast food.
According to Nutrients magazine, the research found that a daily handful of nuts between meals can significantly decrease sugar cravings and improve diet quality in young adults at risk of metabolic syndrome.
The study involved 84 volunteers aged 22 to 36 who were overweight and had at least one risk factor for metabolic syndrome. Over a 16-week period, participants were divided into two groups: one group was asked to consume a daily snack of mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, and cashews), while the second group consumed traditional carbohydrate-based snacks (like biscuits and crackers). The calorie content of the snacks was similar for both groups.
During the study, the group consuming nuts experienced a significant reduction in cravings for sweets and fast foods, including cake, cookies, ice cream, potato chips, and pizza. This was accompanied by decreased consumption of sugary and salty snacks and an increase in protein-rich foods. In contrast, the carbohydrate-snack group did not show a significant reduction in cravings, and their fruit consumption even decreased.
Researchers noted that participants in the nut group showed increased levels of GLP-1, a hormone associated with appetite regulation, and a nearly 19% improvement in their diet quality according to the Healthy Eating Index. At the same time, their body weight remained largely stable, suggesting a redistribution of calories rather than a sharp reduction in overall caloric intake.
اضافة اعلان
