1. When you have finished your meal, say an affirmation out loud several times. Here’s some suggestions: “I’ve now finished eating till lunch/dinner/6.00 pm.” (whatever is suitable given the circumstances) or “I have eaten enough food to last me till ….” or “I’m full and do not need to eat till …” Experiment to find the format that’s right for you, and then say it with conviction several times preferably out loud at the end of the meal.
2. If you comfort eat to suppress emotions and stay cheerful, take the Bach flower remedy Agrimony. These simple, safe remedies based on flowers have been in use for over fifty years. They’re safe to take even if you’re taking medication.
3. Put your fork or your sandwich down between mouthfuls. This way you are likely to eat less and enjoy your food more – your stomach has time to register that it’s full, which it doesn’t have if you gobble your food down.
4. If you crave chocolate, try taking a zinc supplement or eating foods that are rich in zinc (e.g. seeds, leafy green vegetables and seafood). This is a magical tip for lots of people who thought they would never master their desire to eat chocolate.
5. Sit at the table to eat, but clear the table of bills, things to do, etc. It doesn’t help you to control what you eat if you’re looking at unpaid bills.
6. Drink more water – we often misinterpret the body’s thirst request as a food request. When you feel hungry, drink some water and wait a while to see if you really are hungry.
7. Use a smaller plate, so that it looks as though you have more. We eat with our eyes as well as with our mouths and stomachs.
Jane Thurnell-Read is a writer and researcher on health, stress, alternative medicine and happiness. Visit her web site [http://www.healthandgoodness.com] for tips and information on how to live a happier, healthier life no matter how busy you are.
