Fact: one of the best ways to stick to your health goals is to watch what you eat and eat in moderation. We are used to large servings at restaurants and in packaged food, so it can be hard to know how much food to put in your body. Luckily, there are some tricks and tips to help you control your portion sizes and get you even closer to achieving your health goals!
Write it down: Knowing exactly what you eat on a daily basis is a good first step in monitoring your portion sizes. Keep a food journal or use a food tracking app to help keep you accountable.
Balance your plate: A good, simple rule to remember is to fill your plate with 50 percent vegetables, 25 percent lean protein and 25 percent carbohydrates. This ensures that you’re getting enough of what your body needs while also filling you up.
Go half and half: Restaurants are known for serving giant platters of food (not to mention the constant drink refills). Ask your server to bring a to-go box along with your meal, so you can save half of it for tomorrow. Also, skip the sugary sodas and lemonades in favor of water.
Put the bag away: When you munch on snacks like popcorn or chips, measure out one serving and then put the rest away. Too often we eat straight from the package, and it’s easy to blow through three or four servings that way.
Minimize distractions: Studies show that eating in front of a TV or at a work desk is bad for your waistline. When you don’t pay attention to what you’re eating, you’re not paying attention to whether or not you’re full. On the other hand, eating in a social setting can be healthier, because chatting with your friends becomes more important than shoveling down food.
Following these simple tips will put you on the road to health success. Start controlling your portion sizes today!