‘The Little Things That Make a Big Difference’ is an article series outlining weight loss and diet interventions that may seem insignificant, but can make a huge difference to the success of your diet plan.
No second helpings
Possibly the best way to cut calories at big, social meals is to only allow yourself one chance to eat each course of food.
Many, many people on diet will start a meal off well, having a small-ish first plate of food. But as soon as they’re done, and they see there are leftovers, they are off again to serve another plate of the same food for themselves. If you’re eating a three-course meal, having two starters, two mains, and two desserts (plus beverages) adds up to two oversized meals, which is probably all your calories for a day and a bit.
This is not a productive way to diet – I’m sure you can see that.
The fix?
Only allow yourself one chance to eat each course. Serve yourself a decent portion, and then enjoy the food. But don’t go back for more. You don’t need it, and this won’t be your last good meal ever, so be content with what you have eaten, and look forward to the next course. Enjoy the knowledge that you are sticking to a commitment to your diet while you enjoy the meal anyway, and you won’t feel guilty in the morning.
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Take a look at the articles below for more information on the little things that make a big difference to your weight-loss goals:
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Calorie timing in the holidays
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Coffee naps
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Condiments are calories too
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Best restaurant strategy
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Up your NEAT score
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: The biggest secret
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Don’t skip meals
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: General check-ups
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Run! As soon as you can
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Change your favourite food
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Your Friends
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Your attitude
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Dealing with awkward situations
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: The right mindset
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: When it’s not worth the calories
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Only eat when you’re hungry
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Question your habits
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Learn to say the magic word
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Timing is everything
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: A little bit less
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Use your feet
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Eat fruit
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Take the stress out of your diet
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: How to make caffeine work for you
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Cheat a little every now-and-then
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Grab ‘n go meals
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Fast food?
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Give yourself a challenge
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Take a break from food
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Work hard, rest hard
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Fibre for the win
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Eat protein early
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Be “that guy/girl
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: What if you have a sweet tooth?
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Avoid BOREDOM at all costs!
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: No alcohol before bed
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Downsizing
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Quality control
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Drink water like a real adult
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: The real ‘breakfast of champions’
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Treat limits
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: No milk, no sugar, thanks
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Comfy sleep
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Time
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Vitamin pills
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Black coffee & veggies
While All4Women endeavours to ensure health articles are based on scientific research, health articles should not be considered as a replacement for professional medical advice. Should you have concerns related to this content, it is advised that you discuss them with your personal healthcare provider.
