Why portion control matters

When it comes to improving your relationship with food, conventional wisdom often boils down to two messages: Eat less and eat healthier. But completely overhauling your diet to eat foods you dislike isn’t the only way to feel more refreshed.

Portion control, the practice of being more mindful of how much food you eat at one time, is strongly recommended by health experts as a strategy to support your health goals without tossing the foods you enjoy.

Here's what you need to know about portion control.

Unlike dieting, portion control doesn’t necessarily mean eating as little as possible. It's finding an amount that fits your needs. This strategy can still allow you to eat the foods you love.

“The goal is not restriction, but eating enough to feel satisfied while supporting your health goals,” said Lisa Young, a registered dietitian nutritionist, author of "Finally Full, Finally Slim" and an adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University.

Young said that as portion sizes have increased over the years, it's become easier to consume more than needed. She said most people can benefit from greater portion awareness, including people aiming to improve their weight management.

For most healthy adults, portion control…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/life/