Tips to avoid overeating

Several situations lead us to eat more than we should. In most cases we don’t even realize we’re overeating.

It was proven by several studies done in different places that, several techniques are used so we can consume more and eat more than we should.

Our surroundings are designed to increase our cravings.
When it comes to our eating habits it’s no different. See if you’ve ever encountered any of these situations:

Soup

An experiment was done in a cafeteria where someone filled up a second bowl of soup while they were talking. People ate 73% more without even realizing it.

At the table with friends

Notice how much we eat while we’re at the table alone and while others accompany us. When we’re with other people we tend to eat on average, 28% more. And if we’re at a table with six people or more, the average rises to 71%. It’s easy to confirm that this is true, just remember how much we ate at the last family lunch!

Wine and music

It was very interesting and funny to see the outcome of this test done in a wine shop. The store sells French, German, South American and Spanish wine. If the store were playing French music customers bought French wines, if they were playing German music people would buy German wines. Notice how the environment influences us?

Soda

The same flavored soda was put into two different bottles one with a happy face and one with and angry face. The bottles with the happy faces sold more than the other ones. The outer appearance of a product attracts buyers even if both products are the same.

The more the merrier!

If they double the amount of one product on the shelves of a supermarket and put it at our eye level, the purchases increased 40%. We know this but we still fall for it!

Here are some practical tips on how to avoid overeating:

1. Never go to the supermarket on an empty stomach, because if you do you will bring home the entire supermarket. This will save you extra calories and a lot of money ☺.

2. Avoid buying “junk food” because you know that if it’s there you’ll eat it! If you do buy it then buy in small quantities. Golden rule: If you don’t see it you won’t eat it.

3. When we’re distracted sometimes it makes us eat more without realizing. Take your time and focus on what you’re eating.

4. Eat slowly! You’re food isn’t running away☺. Your brain takes about 20 minutes to recognize you’re full, so if you to eat a “cow” in 15 minutes, don’t blame your brain or the cow! It’s your fault for eating too fast ☺.

5. Create a pleasant atmosphere while you eat your meals. Set the table, decorate your plate use your creativity. With a happy face on☺ everything is a lot tastier. So look at that plate of salad with a big smile on your face! ☺

6. Use at home the same technique Supermarket‘s use. Leave the fruits and vegetables at sight so you can eat more of them.

Do you have any interesting tips? Leave your comment.

How about leaving a picture of you practicing one of these 6 tips on our facebook page?!

Until next Wednesday, with more on health!

*The information provided is not directed for individual use and should not replace the any advise from nutritionists, psychologists and or health profession. Always consult your doctor about any matter relating to your health and treatments.