Obesity: Spinach Extract May Reduce Hunger and Cravings

Spinach extract may actually reduce both hunger and cravings. Scientists have taking a closer look at the concentrated extract of thylakoids, found in spinach, and have found that they release satiety hormones, which is beneficial in slowing down fat digestion.

In this latest study, the researchers looked at the effect of consuming a single dose of concentrated extract of thylakoids from spinach on satiety, food intake, lipids and glucose compared to a placebo. In all, 60 people classified as overweight or obese took part in a double-blind randomized crossover study.

The participants consumed either the spinach extract or a placebo. Then, the researchers checked their lipid and glucose levels using blood samples.

So what did they find? It turns out that the spinach extract containing thylakoids increased satiety over a two-hour period compared to a placebo. There were also no differences in plasma lipids and energy intake at dinner, but males showed a trend toward decreased energy intake.

The researchers believe that thylakoid consumption could influence gender-specific food cravings. In theory, thylakoids could help those who are looking to lose weight.

"The reduction in hunger and the desire for salty food that we saw in this study might make thylakoids particularly useful for people with high blood pressure and associated weight problems," said Frank Greenway, one of the researchers, in a news release.

The findings are published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition.

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