Strong appetite

[Missklp27]

Here's my deal and I hope someone can help.( i know some will be mad at me =) )
My body type is a mesomorph...high metobolism, athletic build, etc.
Growing up I have never had a problem with weight. In my late teens and early twenties I was able to eat whatever and not gain weight, but mainly because I stayed active throughout my life. I am now 29 and am still at a comforable weight, just a bit of a pooch and a little bit of saddlebags, which are really not a prob. I still have no problem eating and not gaining weight...I can contribute this to my metabolism and genes(thanks ma.) But, 2-3 months ago I began a muscle toning exersize regimen of cario and weights 5days a week that also included eating 4-5 small meals a day. My problem is this. I still have a very strong appetite and the meals I am eating are not filling me up. I dont want to eat too much to accomodate this, but I also want to make sure I take in the right amount of calories(not too little, afraid body will take aways from my muscle gain.) Can anyone give me some advice? I am trying to follow a strict exersize routine to build my muscle, but at the same time not trying to overeat.

Thanks!
Karen

 

[LKZ]

Hi Karen! I'm the same body type, meso, athletic, etc. I'm 32. I noticed when I added weights to my routine a few years ago I had a drastic increase in appetite too. I think my metabolism kicked up to another level and my body was trying to maintain. If you really are hungry, I would go ahead and eat something. Stick with healthier choices of course. I'm a big believer in listening to your body. I don't eat unless I'm hungry, and I eat until I feel satisfied (not stuffed). It took a long time to tune into those feelings. Its kind of "scary", I know, but it gets easier over time. I haven't gained any weight and I feel much more energized throughout the day. Some days I feel like I can't eat enough, and others, I feel like I hardly ate anything. I guess it all balances out though. Hang in there!

 

[Missklp27]

Yes, your right. There are days that I really don't feel I can eat 5 small meals. Others, particularly when Im at my desk at work, where I feel I can eat all day. I did here that peanuts are supposed to make you feel full, or, fill you up quick rather. So, I stick to trail mix when I get the munchies. I also try to drink herbal tea at the same time too. That also is supposed to help you fill up.
One thing I notice though, is that when I eat fruit, it makes me hungrier. So, I try to just stick to eating fruit during a meal, not after. Oranges are okay though, I eat those as a snack.

 

[LKZ]

I have the same problem if I eat fruit by itself. If I want fruit for a snack, I'll have a little piece of cheese or a handful of almonds with it. It helps keep my blood sugar from rising too rapidly. Plus, it gives me great energy, especially for a workout. Trail mix is good too. I noticed drinking herbal tea when my stomach feels "empty" helps as well. Most of the time, if it feels that way I'll go ahead and eat something. I find if I end up trying to put it off, I'll just eat more later anyway.

 

[Missklp27]

Thats another thing Im not too sure about. The blood sugar problem. I here people talking about it but Im not quite sure what to eat and what not to eat and why or how to bring it up or down. Because I do eat fruit just by itself, so, that in essence is not a good thing?