Have the Soup
Studies show that starting out a meal with soup can activate brain signals that begin to tell you that you’ve had enough to eat. By the time you finish with your main course, you’ll be satisfied instead of thinking about the dessert cart. To minimize calories, stay away from cream-based soups. Opt for vegetable or broth-based soups with vegetables rich in fiber.
Stay Away From the Buffet
Scientists have found that we consumer more calories when we see big spread of food. Don’t torture yourself by going to an all-you-can-eat buffet. Don’t feel like you have to put a little bit of everything on your plate. It will not hurt the host or hostesses feelings if you consume in moderation. If you are at a holiday party and they are serving potatoes, pass on the bread.
Use a Smaller Dish
Do you ever notice that when you choose a larger bowl or container, you tend to fill it up? When you go for ice cream, use a small tea or coffee cup instead of an oversized ice cream bowl. Also, use a mini ice cream scoop or small spoon to serve yourself rather than a giant serving spoon. You’ll serve yourself less and still be satisfied.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
When the treats are out, we eat them. You know that co-worker with the giant M&M jar on her desk? We’ve all got one — and each time we pass her cubicle, those blue & green peanut M&Ms are beckoning for us! Studies show that when candies are placed out of sight in the workplace, people ate half as much. Don’t tempt yourself by keeping treats in plain view.