As we age, our metabolism slows down, and we tend to become less active, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems. One way to combat these issues is by practicing portion control, which is eating a specific amount of food to ensure we don’t overeat.
As we age, portion control becomes more important.
Portion control is essential for older adults because our calorie needs decrease as we age. However, eating more than they need can lead to weight gain, increasing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Here are some tips for practicing portion control as you age:
Use a smaller plate:
Research shows that using a smaller plate can help you eat less. When we use a larger plate, we tend to fill it up, even if we don’t need that much food.
Use measuring cups and spoons:
Using measuring cups and spoons can help you accurately portion out your food. This is especially helpful for foods like cereal, nuts, and salad dressing, which are easy to overeat.
Eat slowly and mindfully:
Eating slowly and mindfully can help you feel more satisfied with less food. Take the time to savor each bite, and put your fork between bites.
Plan your meals:
Planning your meals ahead of time can help you avoid overeating. Knowing what you will eat makes you less likely to grab unhealthy snacks or overeat at meals.
“Eat light to live long.”
Jiroemon Kimura, the oldest man, lived by these words. He died in 2013 at the age of 116.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Stop eating when you feel full, even if there’s still food on your plate. Attention to fullness while eating is essential to maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding overeating. It involves being mindful of one’s body signals and recognizing when one has had enough food to feel satisfied. Eating until one is full and satisfied can prevent overeating, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues. To pay attention to fullness while eating, it’s important to eat slowly, chew food thoroughly, and take breaks between bites. Additionally, noting how the body feels before, during, and after eating can help identify patterns and cues for when to stop eating. By being attentive to fullness while eating, one can maintain a healthy relationship with food and support overall physical and emotional well-being.
Drink water before meals:
Drinking water before meals can help you feel fuller and eat less. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
Avoid distractions:
Avoid eating in front of the TV or computer, leading to mindless snacking. Instead, sit down at a table and focus on your food.
Balanced diet
In addition to these tips, it’s also important to focus on eating a balanced and nutritious diet. This includes many fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. As we age, our nutrient needs change, so it’s important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need.
Portion control is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing chronic diseases as we age. Using these tips and focusing on a balanced diet ensures you eat the right food for your body’s needs.
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