Ideal Nutrition

Mindful Eating

Fast, automatic eating can take away from the enjoyment of eating, leave you full but not content, and may lead to overeating and weight gain.  Counter this pattern by using mindfulness techniques including;

• Recognizing True Hunger – this can help you differentiate it from false hunger driven by cravings, emotion, stress, habit or boredom.
• Being Mindful of the Food and Preparers – think about where your food has come from, how far it has travelled, who picked it and who has prepared it.
• Gradually Transitioning into a Meal – take a moment to calm your emotions, relax your body, and bring your attention to the food you are about to eat.
• Slowly Savouring the First Bites – enjoy them as though they are truly special. Continue to savour food in an unrushed manor throughout the meal.
• Transitioning out of the Meal Gradually – people often to continue to eat even when they are no longer hungry, until the food is gone or until they feel bloated. Be mindful of when your initial hunger is satisfied and taper off your eating.

(from the Mayo Clinic Health Letter, June 2011)