Eat Less Tricks

And they don't hurt at all.

The trick to eating less is to make yourself think that you haven't changed a thing. All of these tricks have worked for me and as you well know, I'm a snacker from way back!

Use a smaller plate
In our house we have collected more than one set of dishes through the years and I noticed that they all varied in size. So, when we are having a family dinner and the table doesn't have to look perfect, I set the table, giving myself the smallest plate I own. It holds a lot less food, but gives the appearance of normal servings.

Drink a bottle of water before you eat
I carry a bottle around with me all day, but if this isn't a habit you have acquired, fill a bottle about an hour before dinner and sip away. You will eat less because you feel full. It's that simple.

Raw or Cooked
Fill your plate with lots of veggies, cooked or raw. Not only are they good for you, they will fill you up. Sorry, stay away from the sauces, gravies, butter or sour cream. That totally defeats the purpose.

Quick Tip
Just a rule of thumb, if it's healthy, eat lots, if it's not, eat just a tiny bit, if you must at all.

At The Restaurant
While it can be very tempting, ask that the bread basket be removed from the table. You don't want to know how many calories are in one slice slathered with butter.

A Work Sheet That Works
Keep a work sheet on your fridge and use it to write down every item you eat during the day. Most of us have no idea how much we are consuming. We often take a bite here and there without even noticing.