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But were just so damn busy that eating often becomes a thing we do while were doing other things.
(c) Thomas Barwick
We eat at our desks or forget to have lunch all together.
Family dinners sometimes feel like a luxury from a bygone era.
Even self-professed foodies spend half of brunchInstagramming their foodinstead of enjoying it.
What do we lose when we eat as an afterthought?
The flavors, the aromas, the experience, the joy.
And what do we gain?
Here are some proven tips to help youeat more mindfully.
You’ll end up eating less, and getting so much more out of it.
First off, slow down!
Unless youre in a hot dog eating contest, there is no reason to rush.
Taste the food before you swallow it.
Revel in the flavors, textures, and smells of the bounty before you.
Not only will you appreciate your food more, youll also end up eating less of it.
It can take around 20 minutes for your brain to realize that your stomach is full.
Focus on your foodwhich means no multitasking.
Put a reasonable portion on your plate, then back away from the serving bowl.
Using smaller serving utensils and smaller plates will help make portion control easier.
and owner ofThe Wellness Whisk, tells SELF.
Related:14 Small Lifestyle Habits That Help You Lose Weight
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When serving yourself, plate backwards.
Load up on veggies first, then your lean proteins, and then your carbohydrates.
If youre dining out with friends, order first.
Put down your fork between bites.
This will physically prevent you from shoveling food into your face hole.
And while youre at it, take a sip of water.
Drink waterbetween meals, and between bites, advises Yeung.
Even the slightest bit of dehydration can cause us to be tired and make poorer choices and even overeat.
It works on several levels.
For one, it slows down the meal.
It will also help you feel more full, so you dont stuff yourself.
Dont snack straight from the package.
Fill a snack bowl and put the rest away.
Focus on what you have in front of you, not what youcanthave.
Instead, she says, remind yourself of all the benefits youll get from the good-for-you-food youve chosen.
But dont ignore your cravings.
A small piece of dessert will not sabotage your hard work towards your goals.
Finding a way to include the foods you love without overindulging is part of being healthy, Yeung continues.
But dont go overboard while trying to sate your desire.
For example, cut the slice of chocolate cake in half and add some fresh fruit.
Save the best bite for last.
See 8 things everyone should keep in their pantry.
Photo Credit: Cultura RM Exclusive/Grace Chon / Getty
