Tips On How to Avoid Overeating

Hillary Marshall
One more slice of cake, a couple more fries, I think we all have those moments when we convince ourselves that a little more won't hurt. The problem is some of us do that everyday and it all adds up. Gaining will power over food can be an uphill battle for many, but it can be done. Reprogramming yourself one step at a time is the key to success. Eating is not only a necessity, but it is a learned behavior and it takes time to develop new habits.

Portions
The easiest step in gaining control of your eating habits is portion control. Never start out with seconds on your plate. When you cook at home only put one serving size of each item on your plate. Additionally, don't place the serving containers on the table. You are less likely to help yourself to seconds if you have to leave the table to do so. Some people also find that eating on smaller plates with less room helps to control the urge to take to much food.

Eating Out
Don't get large sizes of anything. If you buy the larger size, you will typically eat the larger size whether you are still hungry or not. If the establishment you are eating at does not offer smaller portions, you can split your meal with another person in your party. In the event you can't split your meal either preemptively ask for half the meal to wrapped to go or put half to the side on and extra plate.

Timing
Always drink a glass of water before you eat your meal, because it will help fill you so you eat less. Try eating smaller more frequent meals, rather than three large meals. Never go five hours without eating, that way your appetite will be stay steady through out the day.

Emotions
Try not to eat because you are upset, angry, depressed or bored. Emotional eating is one of the leading causes of over eating. If you are going through a difficult time try and alleviate any stress and lift your mood through exercise. Additionally, if you really are down and can't bring yourself to hit the gym don't buy junk food. Go buy some healthy snacks so if you do feel the urge to eat you won't put on unnecessary pounds.

With a little persistence and patience anyone can develop new healthy habits. You may have some stumbling blocks along the way, but as long as you pick yourself up and get back on track you will be successful.With a little persistence and patience anyone can develop new healthy habits. You may have some stumbling blocks along the way, but as long as you pick yourself up and get back on track you will be successful.

Published by Hillary Marshall

I love to write. I have since I was a girl. I write short stories, essays, and poetry. I have one daughter and she is 14. Someday my daughter will surpass me her writing is fantastic. Currently I freelance w...  View profile

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.