“Portion size is everything.”

A phrase we have all probably heard countless times. A phrase that is actually not just a phrase, but pretty close to a fact.

More and more research that is being conducted in the field of nutrition seems to continuously be pointing to the notion that weight loss is more attributed to how much you eat, rather than what you eat. Don’t get me wrong; eating healthy and clean is important for other reasons such disease prevention and organ health. However, in order to simply avoid packing on those extra pounds, it is of utter importance to control the amount of which you consume.

 In America, portion control is not often taught nor encouraged, especially at a young age. From advertisements to microwavable meals, it seems as though satiation is more common that simple satisfaction. While I personally believe that food is one of the simplest luxuries, in reality, eating is no more than a biological function made to give us fuel and keep us alive.  It is an act of obligation that has turned into an act of habit or hobby. 

I’m not saying that eating should be this robotic routine that forces you to consume the same foods daily. However, I am saying that we should be more cognitively aware and active while eating.

So often we eat while facing a multitude of distractions. From television, to conversation, not being present while we consume our food prevents us from being able to fully listen to our body and its communication with us. Being more mindful and present allows us to hear our body. It allows us to receive the cues and signals needed to know when we are full. It allows us to live life comfortably and healthily. 

In addition, the practicing mindfulness while we eat does so much more than simply keeping us from over eating. It connects us to our body, grounding us, and forcing us to live in the present moment. It increases our focus, allowing us to savor each bite, and notice the feelings and sensations we experience. It increases self-control, prompting us to be grateful for the sustenance, rather than be tempted to over-indulge. 

While portion control may seem like a difficult task to master, especially in America, that act of being mindful and listening to your body will aid in the prevention of over-eating. Creating meals that nourish your body in the best way, and to its natural capacity, will become more natural overtime as you retrain your brain and stomach.

It will also prevent food waste, and maintain a little cushion in your wallet. But most importantly, mastering portion control will allow you to develop and healthy relationship with food. One that is free of guilt and shame, yet full of pleasure and gratification.