Portion Sizes – A Contributing Factor to Obesity
When you put food on your plate, do you ever consider the number of servings in each item? Here in the United States, we want everything bigger and cheaper. In fact, it is often cheaper to get a 44-ounce soda than it is to buy a piece of fruit.
Obesity is a huge problem and unhealthy eating and a sedentary lifestyle are the largest contributors.
Have you ever gone on a diet and balked at the suggested serving sizes? When confronted with the number of servings we consume each day, it’s no wonder Americans pack on more pounds than they desire.
Consider that a serving size of chicken or pork is about the size of your palm. Few people eat one, or even two, servings at a meal. When we manage to eat enough calories for an entire day in a single meal, it’s easy to see why people end up overweight or obese.
Here are some tips on how to reduce portions and make better choices when you eat so that you can live a longer, healthier life.
1. Use a Smaller Plate:
A small plate, filled with single serving portions will trick your brain into thinking you are eating enough.
2. Choose Wisely:
Being hungry only leads to bingeing. If you are still hungry, choose an additional portion of healthier food like a vegetable or protein and less of carbohydrate-heavy items.
3. Wait:
Waiting 20 minutes after eating to see if you are actually still hungry helps you better understand your body’s needs.
4. Drink Some Water:
Often, when we feel hungry, we are really just thirsty. Drinking a glass of water will help you decide if you truly need another helping.
Simple, mindful choices can often make the biggest differences. Start small and just pay attention to how much food you are eating. Do some research on serving sizes online and read the serving suggestions on food products. These are good ways to understand what is considered a serving and be aware of the amount we consume each day.
Eating proper amounts and whole foods will help keep yourself healthy and also aids in disease control and prevention. You can also visit a chiropractor in Miami or wherever you reside to help keep your body functioning optimally and in alignment. Healthy eating is just one component in the equation of life-long health.
