If You Bite It, Write It!
Written by Wendy Corr on November 20, 2017
How many of us will take a taste here, a nibble there, and a bite over there, and soon realize that we’ve managed to eat our way through an entire dessert? I’m Wendy Corr, and in today’s wellness tip, I’ll tell you how you can help manage your weight using paper and a pen!
Accounting for every morsel of food seems like something for the over-obsessed, because really, who has time for that? But if you want to avoid crash dieting and still want to eat some of your favorite food, knowing exactly what regularly disappears into your mouth can help you manage your weight.
Why does it work? Well, keeping a food diary instantly increases your awareness of what, how much, and why you are eating, which helps you cut down on mindless munching.
Also, you tend to make better choices when you know you have to write it down. If you know you have to keep track of everything, you might think twice before putting that second sugar cookie in your mouth!
Food diaries also help people identify areas where they can make changes that will help them lose weight. For example, you might not realize how many calories you’re taking in from high calorie drinks or snacks – and limiting or eliminating those can be an easy way to reduce calories.
There are many different ways to keep track of what you eat. You can write it down on paper, keep notes on your computer or smart phone, or use a diet tracking website or app. You track the times you eat, the foods you eat, portion sizes, and notes about what you were doing or feeling at the time using most of these methods.
Then at the end of the day, ask yourself a few questions. Like, did I eat healthy meals? Did I drink enough water, or eat enough fruits and veggies? Is there a pattern when it comes to my indulgences – do I eat when I’m lonely or depressed, and not truly hungry?
Once you get used to keeping a food tracker, you’ll be able to analyze and predict when you’re weakest, and prepare for those times – which will help you to keep a handle on your weight and boost your healthy habits!
Thanks for tuning in to Wellness with Wendy! I’m a certified holistic nutritionist, a mom, an entertainer and a radio personality – so finding balance is the key to my life. I love sharing tips and tricks to help you live your best life – so for more health and wellness news and advice, follow my blog on mybighornbasin.com. See you again next time for Wellness with Wendy!
