生活百科：健康生活系列之十一——堅(jiān)持健康的飲食

STEP 1 Pinpoint triggers for indulgence 了解自己為何想要放縱

Pinpoint the triggers that lead you to eat too much or to eat unhealthy foods. Triggers may include boredom, depression, stress, or even loneliness. Just being aware of your triggers can help you learn how to deal with them.

Don't use food as a reward or as a distraction from life's problems.

STEP 2 Keep a food journal 寫飲食日志

Keep a food journal and track everything you eat throughout the day. Compare it to your schedule to see where you can make changes and start healthier habits.

STEP 3 Ditch the junk food 擯棄垃圾食物

Don't keep junk food at home or in the car; replace chips and cookies with healthy alternatives like fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

STEP 4 Plan ahead 有計(jì)劃

Plan your meals in advance and prepare healthier choices at home ahead of time to store in the refrigerator and freezer and reheat when you're pressed for time.

Meals and snacks prepared at home are not only healthier but can also be less expensive.

STEP 5 Read food labels 閱讀食品標(biāo)簽

Read the nutritional information labels on everything you buy at the grocery store and take the time to learn what they are telling you.

STEP 6 Eat slowly 慢慢吃

Eat slowly at each meal. Take the time to chew your food and enjoy the tastes and textures. Use smaller plates and bowls to control your portion sizes.

STEP 7 Pick up a cookbook 拿一本食譜

Pick up a healthy eating cookbook to keep your excitement level high with new recipes and to prevent your palate from getting bored.

A 2007 University of Pennsylvania study found that the average portion size in America was 25 percent larger than the same meal in France, while vegetable portions were 24 percent smaller.