Trying to Lose Weight? 7 Tips to More Mindful and Better Eating Habits

In the ongoing battle of the bulge, many times the solution is found in changing our eating habits as opposed to finding the latest crash diet. In order to change eating habits, one must first be aware of those habits we have that tip the scale a bit too far in the brownies favor.

Here are 7 tips to help promote awareness of basic eating habits that lead to more weight than we'd like to have.

1.People that shop and stock up at discount/wholesale stores and clubs tend to eat 48 percent more. There must be something about having a mega-pack of Twinkies! If you like to buy in bulk, avoid buying fattening foods. Snacks like pretzels are great and can be divided up in baggies for easy to grab, and portion controlled, snacking.

2.The longer you sit at the table, the more you will eat. I read that dining out with one friend can cause you to eat 35 percent more. Eating out with seven friends, and you're likely to eat 96 percent more!

3.If you fix your plate in the kitchen, you will most likely eat less than if you fix your plate at the table. When the food is right in front of you, second helpings are common.

4.I love buffets. I pile my plate high with a little bit of this, and a little bit of that, all adding up to a lot of food! When faced with a buffet, try placing one or two items on your plate at a time. Remember, if it is right in front of us, we will most likely eat it. If we have to go get it, we may not eat
more.

5.Specialists recommend always eating in the same room of your house. It is also recommended to not eat in front of the computer or in front of the television. This goes for snacking, too, not just meals.

6.The only serving dished you should leave on the table are those packed with vegetables. If you have to have a second helping of something right in front of you, at least it will be good for you.

7.Before you reach for that brownie, think about this: Physical hunger builds gradually while emotional hunger comes about suddenly. Is that brownie comforting an emotional need or a physical need? If the need is physical, reach for a more nutritious alternative.