Are you getting popcorn at the movies? What are you having for lunch today? Are you hungry? These are some of the questions that go un-asked, un-answered and lead to mindless eating. If you wait until you walk into the theatre for someone to ask if you want popcorn, your brain already answered yes before it got to your mouth. The smell of butter and roasted kernels permeates your senses, as the memory of the tactile feel of scooping handfuls of popcorn into your mouth, to crunch and munch in the dark theater, is hard wired into your mind. Most of us don’t overeat because we are hungry. Instead, often we eat due to cues:
We eat because it’s time to eat. Time for lunch! “Let’s hit that new burger place down the street.”
We eat because of where we are. What a great day for a ball game! “Something about a hot dog and peanuts, just feels right.”
We eat because other people are eating. Met a friend for dinner. “Well, if you’re getting dessert…”
We eat because of what’s available. I didn’t have time for breakfast. “Pop tart, sure why not? I’m hungry.”
We eat and often can’t explain why. “I know I’d be happier if I could lose weight, but sometimes I just eat out of convenience.”
Whether it’s who’s cooking at home, socializing with friends, availability of food at work, tempting restaurant menus or strategically placed grocery displays that are influencing what, when and how much you eat, you can pay attention, think of the options and make up your mind about what you’ll be consuming. Eating mindfully means you:
- Plan to eat good food to sustain your body.
- Decide on your splurges.
- Take pleasure in everything you eat. Whether it’s healthy or indulgent, savor every bite.
Eat with intention and focus on your eating goals. Decide what you will eat before you get there, keep heathy foods handy and when food options come your way, remember it’s your choice.