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Avocados, as a replacement for carbohydrates, can suppress hunger

A new study suggests that meals containing fresh avocado as a substitute for refined carbohydrates can significantly suppress hunger and increase meal satisfaction in overweight and obese adults.

The new study assessed the underlying physiological effects of including whole and semi-fresh avocados on hunger, fullness and how satisfied subjects felt over a six-hour period. Researchers evaluated these effects in 31 overweight and obese adults in a randomized cross-clinical trial. These dietary changes were also found to limit insulin and blood glucose excursions, further reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease by adding healthy fats and fiber to a regular daily diet.

The study found that meals including avocado not only resulted in a significant reduction in hunger and an increase in how satisfied participants felt, but also that an intestinal hormone called PYY was an important messenger of the physiological response.