11 Ways to Embrace Portion Control

Many of us know what to eat, we just tend to eat too much of it.  We all know that we should eat more fruits and vegetables.  We should limit sugars and perhaps indulge in too many carbs.  It’s easy to think that we are doing all the right things.  But restaurant salads are often higher in calorie content than some other meals on the menu.  It’s easy to consume two or three servings of crackers or cereal when you are absent-mindedly grabbing food from a box or bag.  So, why not set yourself up for success?

Whether you are eating dinner around the kitchen table or eating out with a friend, here are eleven ways to embrace portion control at your next meal:

1. Use measuring cups and spoons to avoid eye-balling portions.
2. Invest in a food scale to measure meat.
3. Buy portion control snacks.  They are a little bit pricier, but you will be less likely to tear into a second package.
4. Invest in snack size baggies or small reusable containers.  Make your own snack size portions of cereal, crackers and fruits and vegetables.
5. Use a smaller plate.  Many of us try to fill our plates and eat until the last bit is gone.  Using a smaller plate or bowl will give you less space to add more food.
6. Fill half of your plate with fruits or vegetables.
7. If eating leftovers for lunch gets you caught in bad eating habits, consider calorie counted frozen meals.
8. When eating out, immediately ask the server to box up half of your meal or sandwich.
9. Consider splitting a meal with your spouse or friend when dining out.
10. Instead of bringing bulk foods to your work or office, bring only one day’s allotment of breakfast, lunch and snack options.   You won’t be tempted to reach into your desk drawer or cupboard.
11. Use a smaller fork or spoon to make your meal last longer.