How does a high-fiber diet benefit weight management?

A high-fiber diet benefits weight management primarily by promoting satiety and reducing overall calorie intake. Fiber-rich foods tend to be more filling, which can lead to a natural decrease in the number of calories consumed. When fiber is consumed, it expands in the stomach and slows digestion, resulting in a prolonged feeling of fullness. This can help individuals make more mindful choices about their food intake and avoid overeating.

Additionally, high-fiber foods are often less energy-dense, meaning they provide fewer calories per gram compared to foods that are low in fiber. This makes it easier to incorporate high-fiber foods into meals while still satisfying hunger without exceeding calorie needs. The result is a combination of reduced appetite and lower overall calorie consumption, which are critical for effective weight management.

The other options suggest effects that do not align with the role of fiber in diet. Increasing hunger or promoting high-calorie snacks contradicts the known effects of fiber, which is recognized for its ability to help control hunger and promote healthier eating habits. Similarly, suggesting that a high-fiber diet has no effect on weight management misrepresents established dietary research, which consistently supports the idea that fiber aids in weight control through its satiating properties.