Dining Psychology: Understanding How And Why You Eat Or Overeat


We've all heard the expression that our eyes are bigger than our stomach, but for many that's still no reason to STOP indulging or enjoying their probably way too generous portions. But, experts assert that staying healthy as well as physically fit means listening to your body, eating when you're hungry and, YES, stopping when your are not. And they offer basic tips for calling it quits.

1. Control Yourself And Your Hunger "Pains": Experts asserts that many hunger pains are merely a bodily request for water (or some exercise). But, how will you know which ones are legitimate and which are not. Well, if you drink water, coffee, teas, or get up and walk around but the pains are still there, chances are your body needs food. But, if they are NOT stop yourself from giving into your weakness and your cravings.

2. Keep An Eye On Your Plate: Take time out to eat so you can literally concentrate and focus on what you are doing. Multitasking can make you lose site of what you are munching on, or how much, and you could wind up eating more than you normally would or want to.

3. Tune Into Your Own Body Language: A balanced diet means mostly veggies with a small portion of lean protein and a starch that will normally satisfy you after one serving. So, if you are craving seconds, consider firstly how MUCH of everything you actually ate during "round 1", what is consisted of, and give your body enough time to resister the intake. Experts suggest waiting about 20 minutes before filling up again…noting that most times you probably won't still be hungry. If you are, you can always go back for more.

4. Don't Confuse Apples And Oranges: Experts assert that it's easy to interchange physical hunger and fullness for emotional hunger and fullness, and they stress the importance of refraining from emotional eating (or rather overeating). They recommend keeping a food journal and noting your triggers and addressing some "WHY" questions when you realize you let your emotions get the best of you.