If there is one deterrent to losing weight it is eating more than you should. Many of us eat beyond the point of feeling full but the reasons for doing so can vary.
I know of some people who believe in the old “eat everything on your plate” adage. Many times this is because they come from a background where either they were taught the same or food may have been scarce growing up, so now they feel like it shouldn’t be wasted. There are also emotional eaters that eat just because they are feeling sad, bored or stressed. Other people eat more than they should because they so enjoy the taste of food that they just don’t want to miss out.
I think it helps to try and discover why you may eat beyond the point of being full. Unless the reason is discovered it will probably continue. If you know that losing weight has been hampered by this, take some time to really look into your reasons for this unhealthy habit.
It helps to eat less if you start off with smaller portions. Don’t put portion sizes on your plate based on how hungry you feel. I can feel absolutely famished and put a huge pile of food on my plate and yet begin to feel full when I’m halfway through it. However, I don’t want to feel like I’ve just wasted food so I will eat it anyway. By starting off with smaller portions you will eat less and if it’s absolutely necessary, then you can go back for more.
Another way to curb the problem of eating more than you should is to eat several smaller portions of food throughout the day. Don’t wait to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you don’t have small, healthy snacks in between then you might feel so hungry by the time the next meal comes around that you end up overeating.
Finally, drink lots of water while you are eating. Taking sips in between bites will really help you feel full faster. When you reach that point where you are satisfied—not stuffed—then stop eating. Don’t be afraid to throw away the rest. Eat less, lose more.
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