Portion control, you are a challenge. My biggest challenge in fact. Granted I eat healthy so it’s not like I’m gorging on potato chips, but excess is still excess. It has to go somewhere. I’m looking at you thighs.
Now that lent is over, the challenge of being dessert-free is gone (yes!) opening up my self control to accomplish another challenge. I never do two challenges at the same time, that is unreasonable for me and it’s important to do what you can do. Take it slow so it doesn’t backfire in the end.
My challenge for the next month (that should hopefully continue forever) is portion control. Instead of reaching into a bag of pretzels a “couple” times, which quickly turns into aimless snacking, I will take it out of the bag and put it on a plate. Basically Healthy Eating 101 but I have failed on that task and am looking to change this bad habit!
Now, think of your “problem food” that you know you just eat way TOO MUCH of when you purchase it. Try to avoid those altogether. But if you can’t, be sure you take out your allowed portion and put it away immediately. This allows you to know how much you are eating each time, not just when it is alarmingly empty two days after purchasing.
Portion control check up –
Steak – 140g. This is about the size of your palm. Really savor your meats and fill the plate with more veggies!
Avocado – 3 slices. 1/2 of it is too much and often the amount I have. Avocados are a healthy fat but that doesn’t mean you should go over board!
Nuts – Ohhhh how I mess up on this one. You should have a small handful of nuts. There is too much fat in them for you to eat way too many in one sitting. Snack on these if you can control yourself, if you can’t buy those portioned packages.
Cheese – 30 g. Cheese is high in saturated fat so don’t eat too much, a little goes a long way!
Nut Butter – Watch out with this one. A healthy snack of apple and nut butter can quickly turn into a fattening mistake if you’re not careful! Two tablespoons is plenty.
Pretzels/Chips – Check the bag portion!! It typically is less than you would think.
Chloe,
I really enjoyed this post, as well as many of your others. I am currently challenging myself and others to utilize the powerful method of portion control. It is a simple, effective way to enjoy the things you love without (too much) guilt.
I use portion control when I eat at restaurants. When I get my order, I split the plate in half and either share with a friend or save the other half for another meal. A great way to prevent "the wheelchair feeling" or overeating is to teach yourself to eat until you are no longer hungry, rather than full.
Good luck on your challenge!
-Sam
Thanks so much Sam! I appreciate the feedback and the added tips! I hate when I get disgustingly full and stop truly enjoying the food I'm eating! Thanks for stopping by 🙂