Protein and Feeling Full ?

[Vann167]

Hi, I'm very new to raw, but I've been a vegan for 5 years. I noticed that when I first transitioned to veganism, I was always snacking on carbs and never feeling mentally "satisfied" where I felt like I was really full. Once i started focusing my diet more on protein sources such as meals based around tofu and soymeats, I realized that I didn't snack so much, ate less, and felt "satisfied."

In my nutrition class we learned that some people believe protein has a way of turning off your appetite or just making you feel full I guess you could say so that you stop eating.

I'm noticing that since going raw, my mind is still in this mindset that if I eat a salad for lunch, even if i'm physically full, I still feel a desire to snack. I'm not sure if I'm specifically craving something or if I just don't have the protein there telling me I'm full.

I feel like I'm snacking on peanuts and sunflower seeds so much since starting this that I'm probably going to gain weight and fill my body with more junk.

I'm probably overreacting, but is this a common problem? Has anyone experienced this themselves... and any advice for breaking this craving or mindset that I have?

Thanks sooo Much

[Rawkinlocs]

Hi Vann and welcome!

I think this might be of interest to you: http://www.rawfoodtalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3708

As for the full feeling, you just have to make sure you eat more. Your body has to adjust to this new way of eating. Some will tell you to eat a lot of nuts, some will tell you to eat a lot of fruit and tons of bananas, etc.

Some people can eat a lot of nuts and nut-heavy dishes and it not affect their weight while it may be the opposite for others. Eating raw is often about finding what works for you and your body. Different methods and ideals. Do you have Alissa's book? If not, I think it would help greatly!

[Sunshine9]

While I know that many raw foodists insist that we really don't need very much protein, I think it is quite important. If you finish a large meal and are still reaching for something there can be plenty of causes, but for me eating something protein rich usually helps. A huge handful of clover sprouts, a drink with spirulina, or some hemp seeds usually hit the spot. Play around with different foods and see what works for you.

also make sure you are drinking enough water, and getting greens in your diet! lots and lots of greens, juiced if you can

[exurb]

and any advice for breaking this craving or mindset that I have?

look into sensory specific satiety... sorry I'm in a hurry or I would explain it more.

[Nix]

Fats fill us up. Although I know that a lot of people advocate a low fat raw vegan diet, I don't find that I stay as full without the addition of fats, which are more fats than proteins. I also find that green smoothies (see Victoria Protenko (sp?) "Ode to a Green Smoothie", quick google search will pull this up.) do a great job of making me feel satisfied and curbing the cravings. Medjool Dates also help me.
Just a thought...
Nix