Why Low‑Protein, High‑Sugar Foods Leave You Hungry

Translate to Spanish or other 102 languages!

“Foods low in protein, high in refined sugars and lacking heart-healthy fats tend to leave us feeling hungry,” Eury said. “Examples would include sugary cereals, donuts, granola bars, white pasta and sweetened smoothies.” Image for illustration purposes.
“Foods low in protein, high in refined sugars and lacking heart-healthy fats tend to leave us feeling hungry,” Eury said. “Examples would include sugary cereals, donuts, granola bars, white pasta and sweetened smoothies.” Image for illustration purposes
- Advertisement -

CLEVELAND CLINIC – Not feeling full even though you just ate?

Cleveland Clinic dietitian Teresa Eury, RD, said it’s a common problem, and it’s often the following foods that don’t fill us up. 

“Foods low in protein, high in refined sugars and lacking heart-healthy fats tend to leave us feeling hungry,” Eury said. “Examples would include sugary cereals, donuts, granola bars, white pasta and sweetened smoothies.”

- Advertisement -

Eury explained that your body quickly digests foods low in protein and high in added sugars or refined carbs – causing your blood sugar to spike. 

This can trigger hormones that make you feel hungry again. 

With this in mind, you want to avoid snacking on things like chips and candy to tide you over until your next meal.

To feel fuller longer, Eury said to focus on fiber, protein and heart-healthy fats.

- Advertisement -

Meals with these three things take more time to digest, keeping you satisfied for longer. 

“Half of your plate should be filled with non-starchy vegetables for fiber. Then, add a protein and make sure to have a smaller portion of some heart-healthy fat. A good example of this would be a salad with some chicken, a few walnuts and a little bit of starch on the side, like a baked potato or sweet potato,” she said.

Eury added that drinking enough water throughout the day can also help you feel fuller.

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

More Articles

DHR Health Celebrates 101st Birthday of WWII Navy Veteran and Albino Bazan, Jr.

Texas Border Business EDINBURG, Texas - On April 14, 2026, the DHR Health...

UH, DHR Health’s Groundbreaking for Medical Research and Education Center, April 23rd

A major investment in the future of health care in the Rio Grande Valley will take shape Thursday, April 23, as the University of Houston and DHR Health Hospital System break ground on a new medical research and education center designed to strengthen the region’s health care workforce, expand access to care and advance community-focused medical training.

STHS Bariatric Alumni Mark Health Journeys in Transformation Fashion Show

Obesity continues to be a significant public health challenge across the United States, including the Rio Grande Valley.

TMA Honors Georgetown Pediatrician for a Career of Distinguished Service 

The Texas Medical Association (TMA) has honored Georgetown pediatrician John W. Hellerstedt, MD, with the 2026 TMA Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his 45 years of exemplary service to patients, public health, and organized medicine.   
- Advertisement -