Are your bad eating behaviors sabotaging your health? Read more about four common bad eating habits and how you can break them.
1. Mindless eating: One of the most common bad eating habits is not being aware of what (and how much) you’re consuming. Whether you’re eating dinner in front of the TV or snacking in your car, it’s easy to get distracted and end up eating more than you planned. Break this bad habit by bringing your plate to the table and paying close attention to the sight, smell and taste of your meal, so you can savor every bite and keep yourself from overindulging.
2. Not planning meals: It’s 6 p.m. and you’re starving. Without a plan, you’re likely to grab whatever’s convenient, which could mean a meal that’s high in calories or fat. Planning your meals (including lunches and dinners) ahead of time, especially during the workweek, can not only save you time and trouble, it may help you trim your waistline. Planning also gives you time to gather all necessary ingredients so you can easily prepare your meals without having to make a last-minute trip to the grocery store.
3. Giving in to cravings: Your brain is telling you that you need a candy bar. But does your body need it? Likely not. Many times, cravings are actually signaling other needs, such as water, vitamins or minerals. (Read more about decoding your cravings.) So next time you feel a craving coming on, don’t give in! Stop and think about what your body is actually trying to tell you.
4. Skipping meals: For those who are trying to lose weight, skipping meals may seem like a helpful habit. In reality, fasting can lead you to overeat at your next meal, and can deprive your body of essential sources of energy and nutrients. Skipping meals can also wreak havoc on your blood sugar levels and your mood. Keep your body and mind balanced by eating at least three healthy meals per day.