What you see above is food I enjoy. (Even now)  However, I knew from the start I’d have to make better food choices.    I didn’t like the word diet because in my mind it was temporary.  So I started focusing on the type of food I ate and portion sizes. I kept a food journal of  what I ate,how much I ate, & how many calories it was.  I discovered that I was eating way more than a portion/serving of my food choices.  Even at restaurants, I found that most entrees were way more than 1 serving.

Prior to my lifestyle change, I’d enjoy a #1 from Chic-Fil-A  with a lemonade for lunch or Zaxbys or Firehouse Subs during the week. CALORIES!! CALORIES!! CALORIES!!! I didn’t completely rid myself of those foods.  However, I began incorporating better food choices at every meal.

So I started integrating portion control into my new healthier lifestyle. Initially, I was obsessive with portion control. I began weighing food, measuring side portions.  Instead of completely getting rid of the not so healthy foods, I started seeing how many healthy decisions I could string together. It took a little while for me to get used to actual measured servings but eventually I did.

I’m not a nutritionist nor do I play one on tv but I did figure out one thing.  The more I was able to string together good decisions food wise, the better the results experienced.

Now my weekly lunch choices consist of foods like 5 – 8 oz of grilled chicken breast, a cup of steamed broccoli, 4 oz baked potato.  And yes every now & then, Chic-Fil-A.  What I’ve found is moderation is key.  A little cheat meal is okay every once and a while.

 Tips I Used to Control Portion Sizes

• Use smaller plates (salad or luncheon plates)
• Don’t go back for seconds
• Eating out – ask for a to go box so you can box up your half of your entree prior to eating
• Order a healthier appetizer and salad (with dressing on the side) instead of an entree
• Drink a glass of water or eat an apple before my meal

Those are just a few of the things I’ve used to help me control my portions and ensure I don’t eat unnecessary calories. You don’t have to use those tips but find what works for you.  That’s the most important thing.