Let’s just be really real here for a second, controlling portions is really hard. We know it’s no excuse, but after a long day, those Milano cookies go down way too smoothly, and before we know it we’re two pockets in. With that being said, portion control is a great way to start living a healthier life and if you’re looking to shed a few pounds, the key may lie in portion control. We’ve come up with a list of ways that have helped us immensely. Let’s get started!
Trick Yourself
Okay, we promise this isn’t as bad as it sounds, so here’s the thing, nutritionists have found that using smaller plates and bowls has been effective in helping people stick to their portion size goals. This is just a way to sort of trick your mind into thinking you’ve eaten more than you actually have.
Avoid Eating Straight From the Bag or Box
This kind of goes without saying, but if you get in your comfy spot with a whole bag of pretzels and you start your show, by the time you’re ready to move again, every last pretzel will be gone. We’re all for a relaxing evening on the couch, but if you’re going to be snacking, limit yourself to a small bowl or handful while you chill.
(image via: eat this not that)
Give Yourself Time
If you feel like you’re hungry or like that you didn’t get enough to eat during your meal, wait about 20 minutes, and then see how you feel after that. If you’re still hungry, eat a little more, but odds are after you wait it out, you’ll find that you’re actually not hungry at all.
Go Halfsies
Restaurants are typically where a good portion of our over-eating occurs because we feel guilty about not finishing our meals or because our food was just that good, if this accurately describes you too, consider splitting a plate with someone the next time you go out or ask your server to box up half of our meal early on.
Focus on Food
Limit your distractions when you sit down to enjoy a meal. If you’re watching something while you have a bite, odds are you’ll get distracted and just keep eating, whereas if you aren’t distracted, you will more than likely stop once you get full.
(image via if studies)
Take it All In
If you find yourself at a buffet, aka heaven, walk around a little bit before you start piling cuisine on your plant. The foods that sounded good the first time, may not be anything you want to consume by your second round!