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Portion Control: 5 Easy Tips to Master It

Chances are you are busy. Juggling work, kids and jam packed schedules, finding the right balance with food for most is overwhelming. There is so much advice on nutrition on the internet- fast for 16 hours a day, carbs are bad, eat high fat food, don’t eat a single calorie past 6 PM.

There is so much information out there that it can be hard to know what actually works. Truth be told, eating enough while practicing portion control does not have to be hard. The ultimate goal is to fuel your body with the right foods and the right amount of those foods. This will help in you losing weight, having energy, and feeling your best.

Here are five tips to help you in regards to nutrition to help you feel your best.

1. Prioritize Protein and Fiber
Both protein and fiber help you to feel full longer. This reduces cravings and unnecessary snacking. Make sure at each meal you are including protein in some capacity (chicken, eggs, Greek yogurt, ground beef) and fiber-rich foods like vegetables and fruit.

2. Use Your Hand as a Portion Guide
You don’t have to weigh out your food on a scale or use measuring cups. You can simply use your hand:
Protein: Aim for at least one palm sized portion at each meal
Carbs: A fist-sized portion (rice, potatoes, pasta)
Fats: A thumb-sized portion (nuts, cheese, avocado)
Veggies: As much as you want honestly. Fill at least half your plate.

3. Look for Simple and Balanced Meals
You don’t need gourmet recipes at each meal. Here are some of my favorite:
Breakfast: Greek Yogurt with vanilla protein powder and frozen berries
Lunch: Two palm sized portions of ground beef and air fried brussel sprouts.
Dinner: Turkey burger and a serving of jasmine rice
Snacks: Greek yogurt, fruit or almonds

4. Avoid Mindless Eating
9 times out 10 if you are distracted while eating you will usually overeat. Try sitting down, limiting distractions and enjoying your meal. This will help you realize when you are full.

5. Strive for Consistency, not Perfection
You won’t be able to eat perfectly every day. Look for balance, most meals should follow the portion guide. But in the event you are not able to I am here to tell you that it is okay! Enjoy it and move on!

My Final Thoughts
Losing weight and feeling better is not about starving yourself or completely cutting out food you enjoy. The right foods in the right portion size if your best and most sustainable way of reaching your specific goals.

Ready to take control of your nutrition and fitness, we are happy to help. Let us know by booking a FREE nutrition consult. Here is a link to do so:
https://crossfitalabaster.com/contact/

-Josh