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Is your food making you hungry?



If you’re struggling to resist second helpings at mealtimes and cannot leave the table without dessert, then it could be that the food you’re eating is making you even hungrier rather than satisfying your hunger pangs. With obesity statistics on the rise, it’s clear we’re eating more than we used to, especially more processed foods. It seems counter-intuitive that with more food, we feel hungrier. Many people are complaining that their appetites are the reasons why they cannot lose weight.

A recent study by Dr David Ludwig, the director of New Balance Foundation Obesity Prevention Centre, shines light on why we have appetites that feel impossible to satisfy. Published in June in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the study measured blood glucose levels and hunger while observing brain activity during the four-hour period after a meal, as this is the time frame that influences eating behaviour at the next meal.

The study fed 12 overweight men test meals of milkshakes with the same calories, taste and sweetness. The only difference was the glycemic index (GI) of the milkshakes; the first had a high-glycemic index value while the other had a low one.

The study found that those consuming the high-GI milkshake experienced a surge in blood sugar followed by a sharp crash four hours later, while those consuming the low-GI milkshake experienced a much more stable blood sugar profile. This sudden increase and subsequent decrease in those taking the high-GI milkshake was associated with excessive hunger and intense activation of the nucleus accumbens, a critical brain region involved in addictive behaviours.

Ludwig concludes: “These findings suggest that limiting high-glycemic index carbohydrates like white bread and potatoes could help obese individuals reduce cravings and control the urge to overeat.”

We can also include white rice and pasta in this group of high-GI foods along with cakes, cookies and pastries.

If you’re struggling to curb your appetite and want to feel a little lighter, then cutting these foods from your diet will not only help your waistline, it will also help you to avoid overeating. In the long run, this will mean your efforts will be rewarded as you feel you find it increasingly easier to eat healthy foods and enjoy their benefits.

Laura Holland is a well-being consultant and nutritional therapist. For more information, go to www.beutifulyou.co.uk

5 of the most-popular Airbnb locations in Dubai

Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:

• Dubai Marina

The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739 
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960 
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104

• Downtown

Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure.  “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154

• City Walk

The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena.  “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809 
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052 
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210 

• Jumeirah Lake Towers

Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629 
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818 
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941

• Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770 
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002 
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152 

Scoreline:

Everton 4

Richarlison 13'), Sigurdsson 28', ​​​​​​​Digne 56', Walcott 64'

Manchester United 0

Man of the match: Gylfi Sigurdsson (Everton)