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4. Portion size counts

Over the last 20 years, portion sizes for many commercial products such as chocolate bars, soft drinks and restaurant meals have nearly doubled in size. The result: we ingest more calories without being more physically active, which leads to weight gain. Here are 10 tips for better portion sizes management.

  1. Stop eating when you feel satisfied even if your plate is still full.
  2. Take the portion of food you need and put the rest away. Never eat directly from the container (e.g. cookies, crackers. chips, nuts).
  3. Compare your portions with those recommended in Canada’s Food Guide.
  4. Fill half of your plate with vegetables, one quarter with protein (e.g. fish, poultry) and the other quarter with grain products. Enjoy fruits and milk products for dessert and/or snacks.
  5. To avoid oversized portions in restaurants, order a half portion or share your meal with someone.
  6. Eat nutritive snacks when need be. Less hungry at mealtime, you’ll be more likely to eat slower and less.
  7. Take it easy with liquid calories containing very little nutrients (e.g. soft drinks, fruit cocktails).
  8. Stay focused on your meal: don’t eat while watching TV or doing something else. This will prevent eating unconsciously.
  9. Store treats in less accessible areas: out of sight, out of mouth!
  10. Finally, as frustration can often lead to excess, acknowledge your tastes and indulge from time to time!
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