Weight+Loss+Magic

Below are the 23 tricks that we discussed last week. Hope you all chose one of them to work on this week. Look forward to seeing you all at a meeting this week.
 *  Bet you all didn't know that you were Magicians. You proved it this week. Look at all of the tricks we came up with to help us along our journey. It really doesn't take magic at all. All it takes is the know how and you all sure do know how.

I fill most of my plate with foods that are low in energy density and use food with high energy density as “accessories.” I also use smaller plates.

I avoid/minimize trigger foods that encourage me to override my Comfort Zone; they aren’t worth it!

I make sure I have adhered to the Good Health Guidelines before giving myself the okay for icecream, cookies, etc.

I eat more vegetables and more modest portions of meats and starches.

Eating foods low in energy density, like those on the Core Plan. helps you feel more satisfied with smaller amounts.

Eat facing a mirror, if possible. (It reinforces that I’m eating; I feel fuller faster; I’m less likely to watch myself overeat.)

When you have the urge to eat (and you’re not really hungry), have a drink of water. The urge usually subsides.

Remember that the first bite or two of a dessert are really the best, and if you savor them, they truly are. You don’t have to eat more since you’ve already had the best part.

Drink a glass of milk before eating. The protein in the milk is very satisfying and filling and cuts your appetite.

Eat slowly... and try to chew each bite 10-25 times.

Slow down: Put your fork down between bites; use chopsticks (even for salad); sit on your hands while conversing; drink water consciously between bites. Pace yourself with the slowest eater at the table.

Eat a broth-based soup before the meal and hot tea during or after the meal.

Set an attractive place at the table to eat, and arrange the meal in the plate or bowl for optimal eye-appeal.

Don’t let TV or other distractions divert your focus away from meal time.

Use smaller plates, bowls, cups and silverware.

Consider switching to cool dish colors like light blue or mint green. Reds, oranges & yellows may have an appetite-stimulating effect. You may actually eat more from a red or yellow plate than if you were eating from a darker plate. Why do you think fast food signs & wrappers are yellow & red?

People tend to eat less if they leave their dirty dishes out than if they clean them up. Soiled dishes serve as a visual cue and reminder that you’ve eaten. Of course, you wouldn’t want to leave plates with food on them in front of you. **