7 Steps for Avoiding Mindless Eating

The reason it can be difficult to eat healthily is that "hidden persuaders" can lead you into bad eating habits, says new research. Try these tips to avoid mindless eating:

Ø       Be aware of the size and shape of containers. It's the amount of food that counts, not what it looks like.

Ø       Use smaller plates and bowls. Empty plates and bowls, even those of a smaller size, cue some people to stop eating.

Ø       Read nutrition labels, paying attention to the serving size listed. Consider the facts; don't guess at how many calories you're eating.

Ø       Look past the packaging. The wording on a food's package or the language on a menu can influence you to actually like a food better, increasing your risk of overeating.

Ø       Keep visual reminders of how much you're eating. Keep wrappers, empty containers, bones, and other reminders of how much you've eaten nearby.

Ø       Think about eating a meal that's healthier overall. Don't just focus on separate parts of the meal.