As Americans continue to become heavier and obesity rates continue to rise, one must wonder why these trends are occurring at such alarming rates. For many, the answer may be found by analyzing not only what they are eating, but also how much they are eating.
Portions, the amount of food actually eaten, have gotten larger over recent years. Dinner plates and car cup holders have increased in size to accommodate more food and drink, and restaurants and fast food places now serve two to three times more food than needed at one meal. This “bigger is better” idea can lead to extra pounds and possibly a variety of health-related problems.
How do you know if your portions are out control? First, one must have an understanding of the serving size of different foods. A serving size is the standard amount for a particular food set by the USDA and/or FDA.
Servings are often measured in ounces, cups, or tablespoons/teaspoons. Serving size information can also be found in the nutrition facts labeling of packaged food. To find out more about standard serving sizes for different foods, visit http://mypyramid.gov.
Using food scales and measuring cups/spoons are the most accurate ways to determine how much food is being consumed; however, having them available is not always an option. Here are some other quick references to help make portion control a little easier:
By aligning portion sizing more closely to standard serving sizing, eating will become healthier while waists become smaller.
For more information, contact Lelia Smith, RN, BSN, Self Regional Coordinator of Business and Health Education, at (864) 725-4662 or lsmith2@selfregional.org
