by Michele Krauss

—[ Q and A ]—

Q: I’ve gained weight from not paying attention to my eating. How can I learn to eat more sensibly?

A: Ask yourself if you’re really hungry. Is what you’re feeling emotionally driven or actual hunger? Are you reaching for that box of whatever because you are bored? If so, distract yourself with other tasks.

Q: Should I make certain foods “off limits?”

A: Only if you want to obsess about them to the point of insanity. Go ahead and have what you want, but if it’s a “red zone” food, set limits. Go for individually wrapped chocolates, or a small portion of something you crave. All your body knows is that it’s gotten what it wants, and you can get on with your day.

Q: I usually eat in such a hurry. How long should I actually take?

A: It takes your brain about twenty minutes to realize that you’re full. Most of us eat much faster than that. Eat more slowly, and you may stop sooner. The goal is to feel satisfied without feeling completely full. If a restaurant serves giant portions, box up a bit when you get it, and enjoy the rest at home.

Q: I’m usually so busy, I have to eat doing other things. How bad is that?

A: It’s pretty bad. Eating while emailing, driving, watching television…all this multitasking limits your ability to pay attention to what’s going in your mouth. Carve out a small space of time to eat with no distractions.