Sick of Overeating? These Tips Might Help
By Genevieve Cunningham
Overeating is such a bad habit. Most people who overeat don't do it on purpose. In fact, they don't even realize they're doing it. But whether you realize it or not, this habit can cause multiple negative side effects such as weight gain, clouded thinking, and risk of disease. But how do we stop a habit that we've been doing for years? If you're ready to get a handle on your overeating, take a look at these tips to help you get moving in the right direction.
Learn Portion Sizes
Some people overeat simply because they don't understand portion sizes. If you rely on what you get at restaurants, then your portion sizes will likely always be too big. To learn healthy portion sizes, you can generally use your hand. Healthy protein portions will be roughly the palm of your hand. Healthy fats will be roughly the size of your thumb. And healthy carbohydrate portions will be a level (not heaping!) cupped hand. If you need a visual, just do a quick internet search for healthy portion sizes. This is a very easy and effective way to end overeating and probably lose some weight in the process.
Say No to Seconds
If you are one who likes to go back for seconds, it's time to put an end to this practice today. Most of the time, second helpings are satisfying to the mind and the tastebuds. They are very rarely satisfying to the stomach. Before you get up and go back for second helpings, drink a big glass of water. Then give yourself a few minutes before getting anything else. Most of the time, you will begin to feel full, and going back for seconds will be completely unnecessary.
Adjust Expectations
Many times, beating a bad habit is nothing more than changing your perspective. If you currently look at food as a prize or as a way to beat boredom, then it's time to change the way you think about food. Instead, look at food for what it is, which is fuel. Changing the way that you look and think about food allows you to change the way that you use food on a daily basis, which can then lead to ending overeating and getting yourself in better health overall.
Overeating really is a bad habit, but it's not a habit that is impossible to break. It might take a little discipline, some patience, and a little bit of time, but it can most definitely be done. Use these tips to get your overeating under control, and feel better about your health and your life in no time at all.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Winter Springs, Fla.