Aloha,The Today Show recently aired this segment and I have worked with this before with my clients.  It’s quite and eye opener and reveals some of the truths of our eating behaviors and how certain social groups/friends and family in our life can influence how much we really eat.  Take a few minutes and see for yourself. For example, women who eat with other women tend to eat more and are less self conscious vs if say you were on a hot date!

I’ve often suggested to people that if really can’t say no, to maybe change friends just for awhile until you can manage your eating habits so you won’t pack on the extra “social” pounds.  Don’t be afraid to say “no thank you, I’m full”. Or “you know I’m sure it’s delicious but I’m good for now, you enjoy.”  Also, if consuming more cocktails or other alcoholic beverages, you may become less uninhibited and could invite unwelcome additional calories.  Tip: Before you bite, take a drink of water, bite, water! Slow down and take your time. Or use chop sticks!

I hope you found this information helpful.  Call me if I can help you get your eating habits in shape!

Your fan,

Suzie Cooney, CPT  

Suzie Trains Maui,  808-283-2121

Changing and Reshaping Your Eating Behaviors by Suzie Cooney Suzie Trains Maui

 Follow these tips to help uncover and correct those “bad” eating habits and why we eat:

Don’t eat while engaged in other activities; for example watching TV, reading. Eat only at the table, not at the fridge or while standing,

Slow down. Don’t eat so quickly. Chewing slowly allows time to register a feeling of fullness. Don’t’ use fingers, only utensils. Cut food into smaller pieces. Don’t load your fork until the previous mouthful is finished.  I usually plan 20 minutes to eat my meal.

Get all of the bad food, high calorie items out of the house NOW!!  Don’t shop while you are hungry or with friends or family who are not looking out for you. Eat before you shop and stick to your list.

Take the time to plan your meals in advance. Buy a few pieces of Tupperware, or those nifty food containers.  Watch your portions!

Plan a strategy to avoid uncontrolled eating and drinking at social events, or when your emotions urge you to binge.

Promise yourself that when you feel the urge to snack, you will engage in some activity that will distract you away from food ( go to the beach, do 10 push ups, call a friend)

Tell yourself exactly what you will do in such situations. Remind yourself several times each day that you are in charge of your actions and that you can be strong-willed.

If you notice you eat when you are bored, please, find some a sport to take up or interesting hobby.  I’m never bored because there are so many sports to do on Maui! If you want to learn a new sport, I’ll teach you!

Don’t’ blame your genes or your family! It’s your behavior!

Lastly, a food journal is the most powerful, PROVEN aid that helps my clients keep off the weight long term.  It’s amazing what you discover about yourself and the foods you choose if you do this. Remember to record the time of day, portions, and what you ate and why!  Those who consistently monitor their food consumption lose weight more steadily and keep it off more successfully than those who don’t. Countless people tell me how “good” they have been on their program until I see their diary.  Don’t cheat yourself!  The moment I see the data, I can instantly ascertain why they have not lost the weight. Numbers don’t lie.

“Keep up the good work, hold your course for life.”

Suzie