FABLOW AgriLife Issue 27 | Page 17

Experts suggest starting gradually with mindful eating, eating one meal a day or week in a slower, more attentive manner. Here are some tips (and tricks) that may help you get started:

• Set your kitchen timer to 20 minutes, and take that time to eat a normal-sized meal.

• Try eating with your non-dominant hand; if you're a righty, hold your fork in your left hand when lifting food to your mouth.

• Use chopsticks if you don't normally use them.

• Eat silently for five minutes, thinking about what it took to produce that meal, from the sun's rays to the farmer to the grocer to the cook.

• Take small bites and chew well.

• Before opening the fridge or cabinet, take a breath and ask yourself, "Am I really hungry?" Do something else, like reading or going on a short walk.

Read more at the Harvard Health Newsletter