by Stephanie Costello

Created on: May 22, 2009   Last Updated: May 29, 2009

Healthy Eating Behaviors

In the great weight debate, there are different theories as to why some people are heavy and some are slim. Hormones, genes and lifestyle all play a role to some degree. Yet there may be something even more compelling to consider. A study of slim people revealed some very telling evidence that what we eat may not be as important as how we eat. Adopt these five healthy eating behaviors of slim people and you just might become one of them.

Break Your Fast

The word "breakfast" literally means to break the fast of the previous night. In the morning when you wake it has probably been at least 10 to 12 hours since you ate. Your body needs food to jump start your metabolism so do not skip breakfast. Eating within one hour of waking gets you revved up and ready to take on the day. It also prevents over-eating during lunch.

Know When To Quit

Slim people don't eat until they are full-they eat until they are no longer hungry. Take your time, enjoy your meal and when the hunger pang is gone, simply put down your fork. There is no need to clean your plate. If you're worried about waste, then take smaller portions. Even when eating something that isn't entirely good for you, if you eat less you will fare better than if you gobble every last bite.

Have A Taste

Cravings can be monstrous, especially if you are dieting. The solution? Satisfy the craving, but don't go overboard. If chocolate is your vice, break off a row of three squares and savor it. At roughly 45 calories you can quiet the beast within, without completely derailing your diet. Better to have a little then deprive yourself and later binge eat a king size bar all in one sitting. Less is more in the long run.

Think Small

Another habit of slim people is that they eat 5 or 6 smaller meals a day, rather than 3 heavy ones. Your metabolism works more efficiently if you feed it steadily rather than starving for hours in between bigger meals. You will feel better too because your belly won't be bloated and your energy levels will stay consistent throughout the day. Just remember that since you will be eating twice as often, you need to be mindful of portion size.

Weigh In

The best way to control weight and gauge your eating habits is to weigh yourself often. Knowing how much you weigh can help you notice when the scale is climbing higher before your weight gets out of control. Don't rely solely on how well your clothing fits or feels, instead of what the scale says. You can easily put on five to ten pounds before you realize that your pants are uncomfortably tight.

It's much easier to make adjustments early on than it is to have to completely overhaul your lifestyle all at once. Take the time to consider and apply these five healthy eating behaviors and you'll be well on your 'weigh' to a healthier you!

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