Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Protein has scientific support for its role in managing excessive appetite. Multiple studies have shown that dietary protein increases satiety more effectively than carbohydrates or fats, which can lead to reduced overall calorie intake. High-protein diets stimulate the release of satiety hormones, such as peptide YY (PYY) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and reduce levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin. This hormonal response is believed to be a key mechanism by which protein helps regulate appetite and reduce excessive hunger.

Clinical trials in both overweight and normal-weight individuals have demonstrated that increasing protein consumption—especially at breakfast or as part of main meals—can lead to spontaneous reductions in subsequent food intake and lower the desire to snack. For example, a 2014 study published in Obesity found that participants who increased protein intake to 25-30% of total energy felt fuller and consumed fewer calories throughout the day compared to those on lower-protein diets.

However, while the evidence is strong for protein's effect on satiety and appetite regulation, protein is not a "treatment" per se for clinical disorders of excessive appetite (e.g., hyperphagia due to underlying medical conditions). Instead, it is considered a valuable dietary strategy for appetite control in weight management and healthy eating plans. Overall, the scientific consensus supports the use of higher protein intake to help manage excessive appetite, earning it a high evidence rating.

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