6 Foods to Help You Lose Weight Without Hunger

Even though it's the holiday season, it's important to eat right to stay healthy and hearty. Some foods help fill you up while allowing you to stick to your weight-loss or maintenance plan even during festivities.

You will still have to watch your portions, says Everyday Health, but by eating these nutrient-rich foods, your stomach will be satisfied longer:

• Beans. Beans are a great source of fiber with a half-cup portion of black beans supplying a little over one third of the daily recommended value. Fiber helps fill you up without adding unnecessary calories and because it takes longer to digest, you feel fuller, longer. Beans also trigger the production of cholecystokinin, or CCK. This gut hormone slows gastric emptying to help suppress appetite.
• Salmon. Salmon is a terrific source of protein that can aid in weight control, according to the researchers at Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Health. Protein is metabolized more slowly than fats or carbohydrates, so you feel satiated longer. Salmon also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health.
• Eggs. Eggs provide protein for energy and make a great breakfast option for those who want to start off their day feeling motivated. The American Heart Association says that eating an egg or two egg whites daily is part of a healthy diet and should not significantly affect cholesterol levels.
• Nuts. A daily serving of nuts can help you lose weight because they are high in fiber and protein, according to the Mayo Clinic. Studies have shown that nuts can also boost serotonin levels which help decrease appetite. Nuts are high in calories, however, so limit your portion to 1.5 ounces of whole nuts (about a small handful) and select products that are low in sodium and sugar and don't contain added fat.
• Popcorn. This popular, filling food is a great source of fiber and takes a long time to eat so you end up feeling satiated after your snack. With only 62 calories for two cups of plain popcorn, it's an excellent holiday treat. Use a hot-air popper or microwave to make a fat-free version at home.
• Greek yogurt. Yogurt is a smart weight-loss food because plain, low-fat Greek yogurt has about 16-20 grams of protein per cup and very little sugar. You can jazz it up with fresh chopped fruit or berries or use the yogurt as a base for healthy smoothies or salad dressing.