Are you trying to lose weight? Maybe you want to eat healthier in general? Here are five things you can try now that will help you eat less, immediately.
Calories in, calories out, the logic of losing weight seems simple, but sometimes life gets in the way. Things like desserts and nights out with friends become dieting pitfalls and family barbecues can easily become a torturous exercise in dodging your great aunt, as she tries to force another helping of potato salad on you. To help you trim some calories without going totally insane in the process, we’ve laid out some tips that’ll help you eat less, without even noticing.
1. Drink More Water
Sometimes we’ll think we’re hungry, but the familiar pangs may actually be a sign of dehydration, rather than hunger. Pour yourself a big old glass of H2O before you eat. Not only will you stay hydrated, but you’ll fill your stomach with zero calorie liquid, eliminating some of the hunger pains that may cause you to overeat in the first place.
2. Add More Veggies to Everything
When in doubt, double down on the greens, tomatoes, broccoli and more. Filling your plate up with extra veggies can help you feel full without adding many calories. Things like kale or spinach can add some much-needed fiber into the mix, signaling to your brain that you are full much sooner than if you were to just eat meat and carbs. Just make sure you avoid adding too much oil or sauce to make your cauliflower seem more appealing—dressings, cheese and more can quickly pack on the extra calories. Everything in moderation, after all.
3. Never Eat Straight from the Bag
We all slip-up and indulge in chips, cookies or too much “healthy” granola from time to time. Cut yourself some slack, a little treat every now and again isn’t going to make or break your ideal waistline. But, eating directly from the bag of Doritos can cause you to eat much more than you’d intended. Portion out your snacks on a dish, or use meal prep containers, and put away the box. Visualizing what you’re consuming makes it easier to keep things under control.
4. Use Smaller Dishes
A basic food hack, but one that works nonetheless, filling up a small bowl rather than a large one, whether you’re eating ice cream or a healthy rice bowl can help you get your calories under control. It’s a visual thing—portions look smaller relative to their surroundings and a proper serving in a large bowl looks a bit measly next to all that negative space. Plus, you can’t fit everything in that little dish. Use a smaller fork or spoon, too—this will make you eat a bit slower, leading to a sense of fullness after consuming less food.
5. Turn Off the TV
Avoid mindless eating in front of the television, and eat before you hunker down for a Netflix binge-a-thon. We’re more likely to zone out and eat because it gives us something to do with our hands—rather than eating with purpose. If you don’t want to part with your routine, make sure you pre-portion your snack or meal before the tube comes on.
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