Dieting Myths...er Truths

I have been dieting and exercising long enough that I would dare say that this has become a way of life. However when I started this whole process I didn't believe a lot of things I was told. I thought healthy fitness loving people were always telling lies to make themselves feel better for virtually starving. You know the things that I am talking about.

"Drink a full cup of water before each meal and you will eat less." (This is true)
Or "Stand while you eat and you will be prone to eat less." (This seems ridiculous)

Anyway, I have found that some of these things that I once thought were myths, are actually true. Mini aha moments, if you will. These are the things that I have found to be true for me, but some of you may find them to be just as ridiculous as standing while you eat.

1) Eating protein helps to keep me full longer. That and things high in fiber. If my dinner includes a high protein veggie patty, and brussels sprouts, I will definitely be satisfied until bed time.

2) Oatmeal makes a great breakfast because it coats my ribs and sticks with me longer. I can make it to lunch without wanting to chew my fingers off.

3) Drinking cold water better hydrates my body, and drinking warm water makes me feel full. I learned this the hard way. I once brought a water bottle filled with warm water to a cardio class. By the end of the class I felt so full and bloated that I thought I was going to throw up.

4)Keeping a food journal really does work. Counting calories, or Weight Watchers is actually the best way to start. You never realize how much you are consuming, until you write it down. I can't count calories or points anymore because it makes me batty. However I do still try to keep a food journal so that I can monitor myself, be aware, and not go overboard on what I am eating each day.

5) Chewing gum while making dinner helps me to avoid snacking while cooking. I have a terrible habit of eating while I cook, chewing gum helps.

6) Be mindful when eating. I once heard that as Americans we are constantly thinking about food, until we are actually eating it. So in an effort to enjoy my meals, I try to focus on the bites that I am taking, and really enjoy my food.

7) Snack often. I try to eat 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day. I prefer it to be this way. Eating 3 big meals causes my stomach to stretch, so I try to break up my meals, and eat more frequently.

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