Foods that Fill You Up, and the Ones That Make You Hungry

"Although school districts consider french fries a vegetable, they are really just starchy simple carbs that are fried, salted, and dipped in high fructose corn syrup (ketchup)," says Kate Brown, ISSA CFT for DailyBurn. "Between the salt and carbs, fries will always leave you wishing that you had ordered a supersize."

"Rich in healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins, avocados are a nutrient-dense pick that leave you feeling satisfied longer than protein or carbs." says Brown. Try topping your sandwich with mashed avocado instead of mayo.

This takeout staple tends to be loaded with monosodium glutamate (MSG), a food additive that functions as a flavor enhancer but also increases your appetite, which leads to overeating.

Reading "unrefined brown rice" on a label means that the fiber and nutrients of the grain are still in tact. Not to mention it's high in vitamin B, magnesium, and fiber.

"White pasta is stripped of its original nutrient content and fiber, making it more concentrated and sweet but less healthy too," says Gilbert. "The simple carbs cause your blood glucose levels to go up, which makes you feel hungrier."

These little seeds are filled with protein, vitamins, minerals, and tons of soluble fiber. Gilbert recommends adding them to your oatmeal, shakes, or other breakfast foods for a healthy start to your day.

Baked goods are filled with white flour and white sugar, two simple carbohydrates that are burned as soon as they are eaten, resulting in a large insulin spike, followed by a sugar crash. Pretty soon, you'll be craving a second breakfast.

Oatmeal is a complex carbohydrate, meaning it will break down slowly in your stomach and keep you feeling full longer. It's also a great source of fiber and a healthy pick for your digestive system.

Besides sugar, this sweet is also filled with hydrogenated fat, which turns into trans fat and can interfere with your metabolism, leaving you feeling sluggish and hungry.

Their bite-size nature makes them a great pick for an easy, on-the-go snack, plus the antioxidants and fiber keep you satisfied so you won't want to reach for a candy bar.

While yogurt is packed with bone-benefitting calcium, that yummy Key Lime Pie flavor is packed with sugar, and sometimes, high-fructose corn syrup. Be sure to check the container's label before buying. Gilbert suggests buying plain yogurt and adding your own natural toppings like nuts and fruit for additional fiber and healthy fats.

"Red meat is the ultimate filling food," says Brown. "If you are experimenting with a low-carb diet, try adding steak or a burger/chopped meat on top of a salad to keep your energy levels up."

"Filled with nitrates, dyes, preservatives, and high sodium, these links wreak havoc on our digestive systems," says Gilbert. "When you fill your body with unnatural ingredients, it won't feel satisfied for very long." Your better-BBQ pick? A hamburger!

Rich in essential fatty acids, this oily fish keeps your blood-sugar levels balanced, which is the key to feeling energized and full.

Between the crust, sauce, and cheese, you have a whole pie of refined sugars and saturated fat. "These ingredients interfere with blood glucose levels and cause you to feel full for a short amount of time," says Gilbert. "Switch to whole wheat crust, watch the cheese, and add some veggies for fiber to make a healthier pizza that will satisfy your appetite."

Satisfy your soda craving with a glass of seltzer garnished with a lemon or lime. It's a calorie-free option, plus the carbonation will fill you up faster than flat water would.

Artificial sweeteners have been shown to increase your appetite and sugar cravings over time, two contradictions to the zero-calorie beverage that you thought was your better pick.

These little (and often underrated) beans are high in protein, low in fat, and filled with fiber.

"Like baked goods for breakfast, cereal can be a high-carb breakfast with little long-term energy return," says Brown. "If you find it difficult to put away your morning bowl and spoon, try a whole grain cereal that is rich in fiber, nuts, and seeds like muesli. Top with fresh fruit for a filling, nutritious breakfast."