Why do people often feel hungry after eating green vegetables or salads?

 Feeling hungry after consuming green vegetables or salads is a common experience for many people. This sensation can largely be attributed to the low calorie density of such meals. Green vegetables and most salad components are high in water and fiber but low in calories. This means that while they can fill your stomach initially, they might not provide a substantial amount of energy to keep you satiated for long periods. Consequently, despite having a full plate of salad or vegetables, you might find your stomach rumbling soon after.

The role of fiber in this equation is quite significant. Fiber aids in digestion and can help you feel full in the short term. However, because it contains minimal or no calories, the energy it provides to the body is negligible. This is why, even after consuming a sizable amount of vegetables, your body may quickly process these foods and signal for more energy, manifesting as hunger.

Another factor to consider is the psychological aspect of eating. Meals that are primarily composed of green vegetables or salads might not always satisfy psychological hunger, which encompasses the desire for taste, texture, and variety in food. The sensory experience of eating—enjoying different flavors, smells, and the act of chewing—plays a crucial role in feeling satiated. If a meal lacks diversity or doesn't meet someone's flavor expectations, they might find themselves feeling unsatisfied and hungry soon after.

To mitigate this issue, it's beneficial to incorporate a variety of foods into your diet, including those high in healthy fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates, alongside green vegetables and salads. These nutrients have a higher satiety index and can help slow down digestion, prolonging the feeling of fullness. By doing so, you can enjoy the health benefits of vegetables while also ensuring that your meals are satisfying and keep hunger at bay for longer periods.