Portions

Portions, portions, portions….How much to eat?

Portion vs. Serving size: A serving size is what is labeled on the food package, however this may be more or less than what you should be eating at one time. For example, sometimes I eat 2 servings of pasta for dinner and sometimes I eat half a large apple before a run. To figure out what you “should” be eating either try “the plate method” or go to Food Tracker.

The Plate Method (aka the simple method)

In general, I like sticking to plate size of about 10-12 inches in diameter. This tends to be significantly smaller than many plates. Try looking for “salad” plates or medium sized plates. Note: don’t go to small or you’ll be tempted for seconds and end up over eating.

The Basics

• 10 inch plate
• 1/2 vegetables and fruit
• 1/4 protein
• 1/4 carbohydrate/ starch

P.s. I like these Corelle divided plates. They also keep you foods from touching each other, if you like to keep your foods separate.

What about weighing food?

Do I weigh my food? No. Should you? You can, if you wish, but I think the plate method is a simple way to get portion sizes under control. Weighing food does work. You’ll know exactly how much you are eating, but I think its important to include some balance.