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7 Proven Tips to Eat Smaller Portions and Lose Weight Effortlessly

7 Proven Tips to Eat Smaller Portions and Lose Weight Effortlessly

Losing weight doesn't require strict dieting. A proven approach is gradually adapting to smaller portions. As nutrition experts, we've compiled seven practical, research-backed strategies to help you succeed.

1. Drink a glass of water before eating

This classic tip works wonders. Your body often confuses thirst with hunger. Sipping a full glass of water before meals reduces overeating by signaling fullness sooner.

Read also: 'Remarkable: you don't eat less from a small plate'

2. Adjust your menu to your activity level

On less active days, your calorie needs drop. Tailor portions and meals accordingly to maintain balance without guesswork.

3. Incorporate more healthy ingredients

If you prefer fuller plates, fill them with nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, salads, fruits, and soups. These low-calorie options promote satiety without excess calories.

4. Portion healthy foods mindfully too

Even nutritious items can add up if unchecked. We often overlook portions of "healthy" foods. Build the habit of measuring them to stay on track.

5. Weigh your portions

Eyeballing pasta or rice often leads to overestimation. For a week, weigh everything you eat. This builds accurate awareness of true serving sizes.

6. Cut your pizza into smaller pieces

Research shows slicing a pizza into 16 pieces instead of 8 reduces consumption. We eat by piece count, so smaller slices trick your brain into feeling satisfied sooner.

7. Eat slowly

It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to register fullness. Mindful, slower eating prevents overeating by giving your body time to signal satisfaction.

In the September issue of Santé, now in stores, you'll find 5 more ways to avoid overeating.