Warm food consumption may improve satiety and appetite control

Nutrition and Diet Expert Ayşegül Akkaya Erden states that the temperature of food can significantly influence appetite and the feeling of fullness. While many focus solely on calories and portion sizes for weight control, the way food is consumed plays a vital role.

According to Erden, warm foods are digested more controlledly in the stomach. This prevents the stomach from emptying too quickly, allowing food to remain in the intestines longer and delaying hunger. Consuming warm meals, such as soups or home-cooked dishes, can trigger higher levels of natural satiety hormones, which signal the brain to stop eating. This process may help reduce cravings for sweets and untimely snacking.

Erden also noted that the combination of healthy fats and warm temperatures in pot dishes can enhance satiety signals. She advised that instead of cold sandwiches or packaged snacks, choosing freshly prepared warm meals can support better weight management throughout the day. However, she emphasized that warm food consumption alone is not a weight-loss solution; healthy weight management still requires balanced nutrition, portion control, and regular physical activity.