Need To Slim Down?

Find a role model: It can help you avoid holiday weight gain.

Studies have shown that people who maintain a healthy weight throughout life do some fundamental things at mealtime that overweight folks don’t. How many do you practice?

• You usually don’t eat unless you’re hungry.

• You don’t fast or skip meals unless you’re just not hungry.

• You stop eating when your hunger is gone.

• You take small portions and bites.

• You chew slowly, which helps you feel full sooner and eat less.

• You order sauces and dressings “on the side” when eating out and use only small amounts.

• You savor the taste of food.

• You nearly always sit down to eat.

• You eat vegetarian meals several times a week.

• You eat nutritious snacks, so you don’t get too hungry between main meals.

• You make high-calorie desserts the exception, not a regular habit.

• You are conscious of what you’re eating and the effect it has on your body.

• You think of food as nourishment, not love, comfort or companionship.

  
  

Dodging holiday pounds: Enjoy the festive food of the season but be selective and moderate your servings. To avoid overindulging, take the emphasis off eating by engaging in other activities – celebrate the company you keep.

 

Sources: “How To Eat Like a Thin Person,” Personal Best, Sep 2000: p. 7.