Seven Statistics to Start Thinking and Stop Overeating

Food, it's something most of us eat without really thinking. Hunger rumbles and we reach for a handy snack or a hardy meal. Of course, for the weight conscious this mindset can easily lead to pound-storing overeating. The following seven statistics will get you to pay more attention to what goes in your mouth so you can get that excess off your hips.

Statistic 1: 70% of people do not drink enough water.

Dieticians have learnt that 70% of people are in a constant state of mild dehydration. Indeed many, particularly overweight or obese people, are mistaking their body's signs of thirst for hunger. It is important to drink at least 6 glasses of water every day. Did you know that for every 25 pounds of excess weight you carry you should also be drinking an extra glass of water? And that your body needs more water if it is particularly active, hot, or dry?

Tip: If you feel hungry, drink a glass of water and wait 20 minutes before deciding if you need to eat.

Statistic 2: The average meal takes 3 hours and 30 minutes to digest if properly combined.

This means that every 3 and a half hours your body is ready for more food. Research has shown that it is most effective to eat small portion controlled meals at frequent intervals.

Tip: Eat 6 small meals a day.

Statistic 3: An average human has a stomach volume of about 1.6 ounces when empty, 3 pints after a typical meal, and can hold up to a gallon.

While eating 6 small meals a day makes sense, it is just as important to combine those meals correctly. Remember the food group pyramid? You know, the one with vegetables on the bottom and sweets and fats at the top? That's right, it is important to maintain a balance with your meals by ensuring that you include all food groups in proportion to the daily recommended intake.

Tip: Plan your meals to keep the balance.

Statistic 4: Doctors recommend 2 fruit and 5 vegetables.

Sure, they tell you to have 5 a day but did you know that most vegetables have a very high percentage of water content? Did you also know that they are very low in calories? This means that you can eat vegetables as much as you like and not feel you are over doing things. Of course, beware of those few vegetables that don't count such as potatoes, corn, and tomatoes.

Tip: Snack on vegetables such as carrot sticks and celery.

Statistic 5: Your body converts carbohydrates to sugar.

Many people don't

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