My "No Seconds" Rule


Even though I successfully lost over 100 pounds, my choices are nowhere near perfect. The underlying causes for my earlier weight issues are still lurking in the shadows, waiting for me to let down my guard so the pounds can creep back on. Hence, as a recovering dieter, I need boundaries and guidelines to continue heading in the proper direction.

Consequently, my healthy lifestyle centers on portion control and an understanding of serving size. I usually choose only one serving of any food I eat and rely heavily on measuring cups and spoons, as well as a food scale, to help me keep my portions in check.

But after I fill my plate, I do not go back for seconds. Period. Additional helpings can be an incredibly slippery slope for me, making it much too easy to overindulge. This is especially true for snacks. I pre-portion, never eat from the container, and never return for more.

This one rule really keeps me on track with my eating, especially since I seem to be a lifetime member of the clean-my-plate club. Frankly, if it’s on my plate, I will probably eat it. So I am cautious to serve myself only an appropriate quantity of food.

5 comments:

  1. Like your blog Jen! very good advice. the moderation advice especially hits home. Good idea with the measuring cup. I have a roommate that cooks a lot so it never fails that it seems i end up eating more of the cooking than her!! It sucks. going to try the measuring cup and the no seconds rule starting tomorrow!!

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  2. do you just estimate meals that you make the calorie amounts?? If i'm not cooking the meal it makes it hard to estimate how many calories i've ate. :( It should only be a problem at dinner time. I make my own meals the rest of the time.

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  3. When I am not actually the one making the meal, I do have to estimate. What really helps me is to use the "perfect plate" model: fill half the plate with fruits and/or vegetables, one-fourth with protein, and one-fourth with grain. On a standard-sized plate, that usually keeps the portions in check.

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  4. Thank you for responding jen!

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