When I started my weight loss and healthy living journey, I knew that portion control was going to be a key part of changing my eating habits. My perspective on what was considered to be “one helping” was a little out of whack. “What do you mean I can’t eat four heaping bowls of quinoa?! Quinoa’s healthy, so what’s the problem?” Yeah. Of course, I didn’t REALLY think it was okay to eat as much as my husband at dinnertime, then sneak into the fridge later for leftovers. I just didn’t want to stop eating because I was bored, angry, happy…darn that emotional eating!
When I started tracking my meals and snacks on MyFitnessPal, I knew that it wasn’t going to be pretty. The amount of cheese and crackers I typically grazed on for an afternoon “snack” took up nearly one-half of my allotted calories for the day. Even the healthy grains, such as brown rice, whole wheat couscous and quinoa, were consumed in portions much too big for one person, particularly a person who can barely reach the top shelf of the pantry.
Weighing and Measuring:
So, I started weighing and measuring, with the intention of eventually being able to “eyeball” the portions. Stashing a scale and measuring cup in my purse to take to dinner at our favorite restaurant wasn’t exactly an option. People already think it’s odd when I snap pictures of the food. No need to give them more reasons to stare.
But how the heck was I going to “eyeball” four ounces of chicken or a half-cup of rice? The first thing I did was to pull out my handy OXO scale and measuring cups (more about those in the giveaway section), which I use for everything from measuring baking ingredients to weighing out meal portions. I began by weighing and measuring everything – not because I planned to do that forever, but because I wanted to familiarize myself with how a healthy portion looked.
After several times of measuring out 1 cup of spinach, 1/2 cup of brown rice and 2 ounces of turkey meat, I became comfortable with serving up these portions without always relying on the scale and measuring cups. I knew that a serving of leafy greens filled about three-quarters of our wooden salad bowls and a half-cup portion of berries perfectly lined the bottom of my cereal bowl. I still weigh and measure periodically to make sure that I am on track with my estimates. I also learned some little tricks.
Tricks for Estimating:
You may have heard some of these tricks before, but they deserve a mention because they really can be helpful when you are eating out, or you simply want to measure by sight rather than pulling out your scale. Here are some of my favorites:
1 serving of fruits or vegetables = size of a baseball (not a softball) or the size of a woman’s fist
1/2 cup cooked or raw veggies = rounded handful
3 ounces of chicken or meat = size of a deck of cards or a standard bar of soap
1 small russet potato = size of a computer mouse
1/4 cup dried fruit or nuts = size of a large egg
1 cup of cereal = size of a woman’s fist
1 ½ ounces cheese = 4 dice stacked together
Whether or not you want to record your meals and snacks for the long-term, I suggest tracking them for several days. It’s eye-opening and, quite frankly, a little shocking. At least it was for me. The beauty of an app such as MyFitnessPal is that it also breaks down your daily nutrient intake. I quickly learned that I was pathetically low on iron and potassium.
How to control your portions:
How many times have I eaten a snack straight from the bag while standing at the counter? I don’t even want to think about it. It’s that kind of mindless eating that got me in trouble in the first place. Here are some things that I tried to change. Believe me, I don’t do them all the time, but I figure “often” is better than “never”.
1. Sit down to eat. For some reason, standing to eat just leads me to eat more. Perhaps it’s because I’m standing near the source of the food.
2. Use smaller plates and bowls. If I put a portion of pasta in a large bowl, I feel cheated. It looks like a miniscule portion and I’m convinced that I should pile more in.
3. Step away from the phone, iPad, computer, TV or any other distractions. If I don’t think about eating, then the food is gone before I’ve ever had the chance to taste it.
4. Take a sip of water after every few bites. Not only does this help me stay hydrated and satiated, it also slows me down. Seriously, I can inhale a meal in five minutes flat if I don’t stop myself. Typically, it takes about 20 minutes for the stomach to tell the brain it’s full. Give it a chance to do so!
5. Don’t let yourself get too hungry. If I sit down to a meal when I’m famished, I’m more likely to chow down…quickly and alot. That’s why eating regular, healthy meals and snacks is really important.
I would love to hear some of your tricks and tips for portion control and conscious eating. Feel free to leave your ideas in the comment section.
The giveaway:
For a chance to win these indispensable weighing and measuring tools from OXO, just leave a comment on this post. Read below for instructions on earning extra entries.
Here are the items included in the giveaway (approximate value $70 USD):
Food Scale with Pull-Out Display – This scale measure in grams and ounces, has a pull-out display so that you can place large bowls on the scale and “zeroes” the weight of the bowl so you get an accurate measurement of what’s inside.
Stainless Steel Measuring Cups – Not only do I love the look of these measuring cups, but they are also very comfortable to hold.
This giveaway is open to residents of the United States 18 years of age or older (I apologize to my Canadian readers – I promise there will be giveaways for you in the future) and will be open until Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at 5pm PST.
The winner will be chosen using a random number generator and will be notified via email, so please make sure your email address is correct. You will have 48 hours to respond to me, or a new winner will be chosen.
To earn additional entries, leave separate comments for each of the steps listed below. If you don’t leave separate comments for each step, the number generator will not count them as separate entries. If you already follow/”like” OXO or Cookin’ Canuck, just let me know that in your comments.
1. Follow OXO on Twitter.
2. Follow Cookin’ Canuck on Twitter.
3. Tweet about this giveaway, including my Twitter handle. Here’s an example: Head to @CookinCanuck for helpful tips on Portion Control for Weight Loss & Healthy Living, & an awesome @OXO giveaway. http://bit.ly/z8aUMO
4. “Like” OXO on Facebook.
5. “Like”Cookin’ Canuck on Facebook.
6. Share on your Facebook page and leave me the link (click on the time stamp of your “share” to access the link).
7. Follow Cookin’ Canuck on Pinterest.
Good luck!
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by OXO and they supplied me with some OXO products for my personal use and the giveaway. As usual, all opinions are my own. What can I say? I’m an OXO fan.
Raelene says
I love these tools! I am totally with you on portion control, as long as I have the *right* amount I don’t feel like I’m going without. It works!
Rookie Qookie says
I control my portions by having a bowl of clear soup before the main course. It fills me up and prevents me from over-eating. I make enough soup to last me for a few days 🙂
Cindy @ Once Upon a Loaf says
Wow – you look AMAZING. I remember when I first followed you on Twitter, how I thought you were the prettiest food blogger out there – and you looked great “before,” too. But you are smokin’ now! 😉 I need to get back to better portion control. I’m a runner, too, and when I’m training for marathons, I sometimes feel a little too entitled, when I’m actually not. Thanks for this post!
Katia says
Thankyou for your honesty in these weight loss posts.
It’s hard enough for me to confess to MYSELF that I’ve been eating portion sizes that are way out of control, much less confessing it to the internet. I have been hesitating with joining WW online just to keep track of what I’m eating, but this app actually sounds like a better starting point – & I am downloading it now, in fact!
Again, thankyou for these posts which are striking and reassuring in their honesty.
Peggy says
Congrats on your weight loss. I’m working hard to lose weight and get healthy, too. 14 pounds so far! These tools would certainly come in handy!
Michele says
Portion control is something I’ve always struggled with! Perhaps winning that scale would get me on track!
Michele says
I like your page on Facebook!
Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar says
This is such a great giveaway! Oxo has such great kitchen tools!
Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar says
I like you on Facebook.
Bev Weidner says
I loooove Oxo! And these tools look bad to the BONE.
Jessen says
I’ve wanted a Food Scale for a Long Time!! Great Giveaway. . . Even if I don’t “win” =)
Mom24@4evermom says
What a wonderful giveaway! I really need to tighten up portion control and this would help.
Mom24@4evermom says
I follow on Pinterest.
abbi says
This is a great giveaway!
abbi says
I also follow on Pinterest!
Courtney says
I never realized how distorted my portion control is. Wow!
Bri says
Thank you for continuing to share your story! Its always encouraging to hear what works for someone else!
Emilie @ Emilie's Enjoyables says
Isn’t controlling our portions hard?!? Sometimes I find that I do it naturally but other times I get frustrated when I see how much my fiance can consume without a worry! My trick is to always wait 20 minutes after dinner to eat dessert. I’m one of those where it takes me 20 or so minutes to actually feel “full”, so if I immediately eat dessert, I tend to overeat.
Lindsay says
Hey there! I rarely post, but I wanted to thank you for posting this because I don’t think others recognize the importance of knowing your servings! I’ve lost over 40 pounds doing this over the years. I also dip my salads, not pour. That’s been a biggie because I eat A LOT of fresh vegetables.
Thanks for sharing with the world!
Lucky says
If it makes you feel better, retraining myself to recognize reasonable portions has made maintaining what I did lose oh, so much easier, so it might be a bummer now but it will pay off in the long run.
I also learned not to eat dessert until I did my evening exercise (walking/jogging in my case). One, it gave me incentive to actually do the exercise and, two, once I was done, I wanted a big glass of water more than I wanted something sweet, so I ate less and didn’t feel like I’d given anything up.
Stephanie says
I’ve been thinking of buying a food scale to assist in my weight-loss journey…perfect!
Evelyn R says
I have never used a scale to weigh portions but would love to win so I could try it…..thanks for the giveaway!
Evelyn R says
I “like” OXO on Facebook.
Evelyn R says
I “like” Cookin’ Canuck on Facebook.
Evelyn R says
I follow Cookin’ Canuck on Pinterest.
Amanda KP says
I follow Cookin’ Canuck on Twitter!
Cooking with Michele says
My other tip is to also measure out wine in a glass – wine glasses today are so darn big (did you know an entire bottle of wine fits in a Riedel pinot noir glas???) that we think we are having one glass when it’s really 2 or more. (PS, reading about your journey inspired me to get my butt in gear and lose the weight I put on doing my cookbook project – 6 pounds down, 4 to go! – and measuring, weighing, and writing it all down are absolutely key.)
Andrea the Kitchen Witch says
What a great giveaway! I follow you on facebook 🙂
Tyla says
I love my scale! We also bought a couple of extra measuring cup/spoon sets and have them all in a basket in the cupboard – so we are never without the measuring implement we need.
I wanted to also thank you for recommending myfitnesspal! I had been using spark people, but myfitnesspal is SO much more streamlined and so much easier to enter everything into. So, thanks!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Hi Tyla, thanks so much for commenting. If you want to “friend” me on MyFitnessPal, my username is CookinCanuck. It’s always more motivating to have friends on there!
Stacey says
I have a cheap digital scale that I picked up years ago. I have had that specific model of OXO on my wishlist for awhile.
Stacey says
I liked OXO on facebook
Stacey says
I also liked cookin canuck on facebook!
Susan says
I love your recipes and pictures, thanks for the inspiration to eat better!
Susan says
I followed Cookin Canuck on twitter.
Susan says
I followed you on Pinterest.
April says
It’s funny you mention “4 cups of quinoa,” I could not believe how many calories are actually in this healthy grain (seed). I add a couple teaspoons to my salads to help feel full, add texture, and enjoy the over all flavor.
Jane says
Half a cup, four ounces, heck, it’s hard to guess. I’ve gotten in the habit of using measuring spoons for stuff like sugar in my tea, but I need to work on using measuring cups/weights for bigger stuff.
Kari says
Thanks for all the great tips! I’ve been meaning to add a scale to my kitchen gadgets.
annabelle says
I live by portions control, is the best way!!!! I love the oxo digital scale, putting one in my wishlist
leighmarker says
thanks for giving us an idea on portions. great explanations.
LeslieM says
Portion control is really key. Also, really difficult at first. Thanks for the rundown.
LeslieM says
I follow Cookin’ Canuck on Twitter.
LeslieM says
I like Cookin’ Canuck on Facebook.
Shelly says
I would love to win this so I can weigh my portions!
Shelly says
I follow OXO on Twitter.
Shelly says
I follow you on Twitter.
Loretta says
I serve up the food in the kitchen, that way, it’s not as convenient to keep eating…
Shelly says
I Tweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/Dinky_Diner/status/179948490342940673
Jenny says
I could really use that scale–I have a really old, non-digital one and I often wonder how accurate it is!
Shelly says
I like OXO on FB.
Shelly says
I like you on FB.
judy jursch says
Portion control is one of the hardest, but one of the most necessary parts of changing your lifestyle. Congratulations to you for learning how to manage this!
Shelly says
I follow you on Pinterest.
Linda Russell says
Yes, when you begin to measure/weigh and write EVERYTHING down, you see results. I am always surprised how quickly I forget something I ate if I don’t write it down immediately before or after eating it.
Jenny says
I just liked your facebook page!
Andrea W says
This is a great prize! Would love to finally lose my last 10 lbs and portion control just may be the way to do it!
Jenny says
I liked OXO’s facebook page.
Andrea W says
I like you on facebook!
Andrea W says
I follow you on pinterest!
Krysten Oliphant says
I do the same thing. I typically eat really healthy foods but tend to eat WAY too much of them. Measuring is really important!
Krysten Oliphant says
I follow you on Twitter
Krysten Oliphant says
I followed OXO on Twitter!
Krysten Oliphant says
I liked OXO on Facebook!
Kelly Edm says
I’d love to win this! I’ve been on the hunt for a good scale for ages and just never get around to getting one. Plus? I am in desperate need of portion control. Sad, but true!
Kelly Edm says
I follow you on Twitter: @jarslikejam
Kelly Edm says
I follow OXO on Twitter: @jarslikejam
Krysten Oliphant says
https://www.facebook.com/cookincanuck?ref=ts&sk=wall#!/krystenoliphant/posts/212789865495163
Kelly Edm says
I tweeted the giveaway! @jarslikejam
Deb says
I have been thinking I need to be more aware of the size of portions I serve.myself. Thank you for this post…!
Erin @ The Speckled Palate says
You have officially inspired me to start weighing and measuring my foods, as well as jumping back on the MyFitnessPal bandwagon to start eating (and feeling!) healthier.
Thanks!
Tanya says
I am much more conscious about WHAT I am eating, HOW MUCH I am eating, and WHEN I am eating it when I am also in an exercise routine. When it takes as long as it does to burn off 200 calories, I’m much more careful about squandering it!!! Weighing it would only make me more accountable.
Pat R says
This is the most accurate way to assure appropriate sizes of portions.
Pat R says
I already like OXO on FB
Amy MS says
You look great and have inspired me to download Lose It on my iphone. Also, I made your stuffed shells last night for the second time. My son and I just love them!
Pat R says
I already like you on FB
Lizvc says
My approach to portion control when eating out was to cut everything in half and put the second half in a take-home box. I cut way back when eating at home, too. When I was diagnosed with Diabetes, I met with a Diabetes Educator/Nutritionist and she gave me an eating plan. Then I set about measuring all my carb choices. You quickly learn to judge your portions of most foods by sight. I’ve lost 40 pounds.
Lizvc says
I’m now following you on Pinterest.
Lizvc says
I liked you on Facebook! Don’t know why I hadn’t already done that…
Lizvc says
I liked OXO on Facebook.
Katie says
I like to add mushrooms/veggies/tomatoes to my single serving of pasta. It makes it look like I’m eating a lot more pasta than I really am. I also like to toss it with a bit of olive oil and black pepper instead of butter or other sauces.
I really enjoy your recipes, even the soups ^_^
Babs says
Portion control is the only way to go. Love the scale and measuring cups.
Emily H. says
I’m the worst at portion control so these tools would be amazing to get my eating in order!! Great post!
April says
I follow you on twitter. 🙂
April says
I liked OXO on Facebook. 🙂
April says
I liked Cookin Canuck on Facebook.
April says
I started following Cookin Canuck on Pinterest.
Maxine says
I’ve recently started a weight loss program, again! These tips are great and I know from past experience (LOTS of experience!!) that they work! I have a set of serving spoons that are 1 C. and 1/2 C. exactly and I use them all the time… takes the guess work out, which is never a good idea anyway! I have always wanted a scale for those items that can’t be measured w/ a cup or spoon… maybe?? 🙂 Thanks for reminding me of these important tips today!!
Emilee says
I’ve always wanted a food scale. I’d especially love a free one!
Emilee says
I’m following Cookin’ Canuck on Pinterest.
Krystal says
I’m guilty of snacking out of the bag too… and the worst part is, I know that its bad, but keep on munching anyways!
Krystal says
I follow Cookin’ Canuck on facebook!
El Ross says
I know I eat way tooooo much! I need to start measuring. This should help!
Becky says
I would love a food scale! I keep looking to buy one but I haven’t done it yet. Free would be great!
Becky says
I follow you on Pinterest
Chloe says
Oh, I have been lusting after this scale! Not only for portion control, but improving my baking as well.
Angela says
I love this idea. I am toying with the idea of being more healthy and I have made some good positive changes, but I know I need to do more. This might be the way to make me do it properly.
Shari Ryan Eklund says
Great tools … even better info! I have often thought that my personal weight demon is an out of whack portion control “meter”! I shared your info on my Facebook page, I “liked” OXO and also “liked” Cookin’ Canuck on Facebook! Sorry, but I am not on Twitter at this time.
Maria R. says
I like on FB!
Maria R. says
I like oxo on fb!
Maria R. says
I follow on pinterest.
Julie @BananasForBourbon says
I have a trick that I LOVE! I eat a lot of leftovers and a lot of soups. When I’m reheating something like a soup or stir fry I’ll line the bowl first with a handful of spinach or arugula. Then top it with soup. This keeps me from over-filling the bowl, as I have a tendency to do, and adds some extra greens to the meal. The spinach wilts with the heat of the microwave and is always a tasty addition!
Julie @BananasForBourbon says
I follow OXO on twitter
Julie @BananasForBourbon says
I follow you on twitter
Julie @BananasForBourbon says
I tweeted the giveaway
Julie @BananasForBourbon says
I like OXO on facebook
Julie @BananasForBourbon says
I like you on facebook. 🙂
Julie @BananasForBourbon says
I follow you on pinterest!
Connie Bolick Lee says
I would like to win, thanks!
sarah says
I am so impressed by your weightloss journey. It’s amazing to see someone make a successful and healthy change. Also, I love OXO products!
Arlyn says
I have been a follower of your blog for awhile now! I have recently started my weight loss journey! I am at my halfway point and I cannot seem to break through my “Plateau”. Thank you for the great giveaway!!!
Connie Bolick Lee says
I follow OXO on twitter
Andrea M says
Please sign me up! my husband and I are looking for a good scale for our home 😀
Arlyn says
I follow OXO on twitter (arlyn531)
Connie Bolick Lee says
I followed Cookin’ Canuck on twitter
Arlyn says
I like OXO on Facebook! they have such great stuff; the majority of my kitchen stuff has come from them!
Arlyn says
I shared your link on Facebook here is the “Time Stamp”
https://www.facebook.com/arlyn.parker/posts/328187940562812
Connie Bolick Lee says
I tweeted the giveaway
Frieda says
What a wonderful giveaway! I’ll take the almonds, too!
Putting down my fork in between bites have really helped me.
OXO has great products; they are one of my favorite brands!
Frieda says
I follow OXO on Twitter!
Connie Bolick Lee says
I like OXO on facebook
Sarah H.P. says
I love your comparisons for portion size, very clever! Great post!
Arlyn says
I did tweet about your giveaway here is the link
https://twitter.com/#!/Arlyn531/status/179981610446356480
Connie Bolick Lee says
I like Cookin’ Canuck on facebook
Arlyn says
I follow you on Pintrest 🙂
Frieda says
I have followed you faithfully on Twitter for awhile!
Frieda says
Tweeted! https://twitter.com/friedaluvsbread/statuses/179988575763439617
naomi says
Portion control is a great way to stay aware of what and how much you are eating! Love this scale.
Frieda says
I just liked OXO on FB!
Frieda says
Liked you on FB!
Frieda says
Shared on FB: http://www.facebook.com/friedalovesbread/posts/177936578989979
Frieda says
I already follow you on Pinterest … lucky me!
Cori says
Great advice and a great giveaway!
shar y says
This scale would be awesome. Thank you for this wonderful post reminding us about portion control. I know that is very important!
Tricia says
I love OXO tools….I only have their can opener….
shar y says
and, i already follow you on FB!
Raelene says
I “like” your FB Page!
Linda S. says
I think weighing portions would help me with portion control; I tend to binge at night, otherwise.
Linda S. says
I follow OXO on twitter: ljskop
Christine S says
From one canuck to another I know portion control is the trick to success!!!
debbie hulbert says
Followed you on Twitter….have been reading blog and getting in my daily drool – nice to have your insight on portion control as I’m now working on eating healthy – and am following many of your steps.
Biggest help for me is eating a small and balanced meal carb/protein every three hours. Keeps the blood sugar level and allows the body to learn how to use stored fuel!
debbie hulbert says
Tweeted on Portion Control @debbiehulbert
Sarah L says
These look like great tools!
debbie hulbert says
Liked Cookin Canuk on FB!
Kristin says
Portion control is my biggest hurdle! I really need to get a scale or become better at eating smaller portions! Great giveaway!
Kristin says
I’m following OXO on Twitter!
Kristin says
I’m following you on Twitter!!
Kristin says
Just left this tweet: https://twitter.com/#!/leighvme/status/179998822259372032
Kristin says
I like your Facebook page!!
Kristin says
I’m already following some of your boards on Pinterest!
Amelia says
Loved this post! Keeping my fingers crossed, hoping to win. Could sure use the measuring cups! 😀
Cherie Mistretta says
I would love to win, I think portion control is huge and like you I could eat 4 helpings of good Quinoa anyday.
Shana says
I have learned to only take one serving on a salad plate & don’t go back for seconds. That’s my portion control so far. I haven’t started weighing food yet, but I used to cook @ the Senior Center & had to take classes every year, so I did learn something! But knowing & doing are two different beasts!!
chantal says
This would be amazing to win, so useful!
Shana says
Liked you on face book under shana cummings williams
(e-mail subscriber)
Jen Nichols says
Need to learn how to do this the right way–way too easy to guess portion sizes wrong!
Jen Nichols says
Following you on Pinterest!
Richelle says
Thanks for your post, what a great giveaway!
Mirtha says
I have kept a food diary before, per my doctor’s request, and it helped. I will start doing that again, thanks for all the tips.
Michelle says
I like OX too. I hope to be able to giveaway their products on my blog too.
Anastasia Pazana says
Already following OXO on Twitter.
Anastasia Pazana says
Already following Cookin’ Canuck on Twitter.
Michelle says
I follow you on twitter.
Anastasia Pazana says
Already like OXO on Facebook.
Anastasia Pazana says
Already like Cookin’ Canuck on Facebook.
Anastasia Pazana says
Already following Cookin’ Canuck on Pinterest.
Michelle says
I tweeted the message.
Michelle says
I like OXO on facebook.
Michelle says
I like you on facebook.
Claudia Ellis says
I follow OXO on FB
Claudia Ellis says
I follow Cookin’Canuck on FB
Claudia Ellis says
I shared this on FB https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=161514053970049&id=1428640798
I just recently found your site and absolutely love all the healthy tips and recipes you post!!! I need one of those scales to do portion control as well. We’re eating pretty healthy just too much I think.
Stephanie says
I love your recipes and hope to win this great prize!
Stephanie says
I Liked OXO on Facebook.
Stephanie says
I like Cookin Canuck on Facebook.
Brenda@SugarFreeMom says
Fabulous post and great ideas! Oh yes I am a BIG believer in portion control!
Stephanie says
I follow you on Pinterest also!
Maria says
Great giveaway! Kitchen scales are so helpful!
Veronica @ Café con Leche says
i like you on fbook!
Veronica @ Café con Leche says
i like oxo on fbook!
Veronica @ Café con Leche says
i follow you on twitter!
Veronica @ Café con Leche says
i follow you on pinterest!
Amy says
Great ideas!
Katie says
I have recently started measuring my food too, but I do not have a kitchen scale, so I just try to eyeball it, this would be sooo helpful!
Katie says
I “like” Cookin’ Canuck on Facebook
Katie says
I follow you on twitter
CarolynH says
I follow CookinCanuck on Twitter.
CarolynH says
I already follow OXO on Twitter. Handle is poohro
patti says
I follow you on Facebook and Twitter as well as get an e-mail from you. I joined My Fitness Pal at your suggestion and really like it.
Barb P. says
I think the more tools and mind pictures you have in your head, the harder it is to fool yourself on portion control. Thanks!
CarolynH says
I shared the giveaway on Facebook. http://bit.ly/xjD8k2
Cookin’ Canuck – Portion Control for Weight Loss & Healthy Living {Giveaway}
CarolynH says
I am already following CookinCanuck on Pinterest.
CarolynH says
I am already a Facebook fan of OXO.
Lisa says
You’re right about the wake up call you get when you start tracking every single thing you put in your mouth on myfitnesspal. No wonder I wasn’t losing weight before. Have thought about buying a scale but haven’t invested yet, so would love to win one!
Robin says
Would love to have a kitchen scale!
Jessica F says
awesome scale! I need one so I can know exactly how much I’m eating!
Jessica F says
following OXO on Twitter @jfong1130
Jessica F says
following Cookin’ Canuck on Twitter @jfong1130
Jessica F says
tweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/jfong1130/status/180077277357412352
Jessica F says
I like OXO on facebook!
Jessica F says
I like Cookin’ Canuck on facebook!
Kim says
Awesome giveaway. Thank you.
CarolynH says
I tweeted about this giveaway. Handle is poohro.
Jessica F says
shared on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=348346265207788&id=100003375801046
Jessica F says
I’m following Cookin’ Canuck on Pinterest!
The Onyx Plate says
I adore OXO!!! I couldn’t live without them!!!
Kelli says
I never used to measure how much cereal I was eating for breakfast. Big mistake! Now I use a 1/4 cup so I can mix & match cereals. Every morning can be different.
Erin B says
I like you on fb!
Erin B says
I follow you on Pinterest
Sara{OneTribeGourmet} says
Thank you for such helpful tips..I absolutely believe in portion control and I think I need to buy the scale, seems very efficient!
I already LIKE you on FB! 🙂
Erin B says
I like OXO on fb
Erin B says
Following you on Twitter. eBLUNTillustrtn
Esther says
Great giveaway! OXO makes such good sturdy tools.
jacquie says
i try very hard to not eat standing up or w/ my fingers or “on the run”. i also have become more aware of “portion” size by noting what a serving size is since it varies so much from one thing to another and measuring things out until i get a feel for it. i also try to minimize pre-processed food as i find that can really pack the calories in w/o one realizing it. plus home cooked tastes so much better anyway 🙂
jacquie says
i don’t have a facebook account nor know anything about twitter – can i get an extra entry for being an email subscriber?
SeattleDee says
Thanks for providing the kickstart I needed to begin MyFitnessPal and make conscious choices about how and what I eat. You are an inspiring role model.
While I can’t face a drink of water after each food bite, I have found that putting my fork down between bites is helpful. Hard to practice, but helpful.
gail says
Liked you/oxo/did everything you asked but no twitter for me – anyhow – not sure how to do the date stamp thing – too much – anyhow -enter me – Love your blog & the way i do portion control is to dance/dance/dance.
Rene Kratz says
I’ve been dragging my feet on portion control….this is a good reminder.
MommaMary says
What a great giveaway! Love OXO products. The tips for estimating was very handy to know. Thanks
MommaMary says
I like OXO on facebook
MommaMary says
I like the Cookin Canuck on FB
MommaMary says
I shared on FB https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=www.cookincanuck.com%2F2012%2F03%2Fportion-control-for-weight-loss-healthy-living-giveaway%2F&src=sp
MommaMary says
I shared this on my FB page https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=www.cookincanuck.com%2F2012%2F03%2Fportion-control-for-weight-loss-healthy-living-giveaway%2F&src=sp
MommaMary says
https://www.facebook.com/1MommaMary/posts/259894347429845
Sorry, I didn’t know how to show you the link.
MommaMary says
I follow the Cookin Canuck on Pinterest
Linds @ The MuffinTin Post says
Best thing about the OXO scale is that it has both metric and English measurement options!
Dani H says
OXO rocks! & so do you for having the giveaway!
Lena H. says
What great timing! My scale just died last week! Whenever I buy foods in bulk — or make a batch of quinoa, brown rice, oats, whatever — I measure them out in one-serving containers. That way they are all ready to go when I need them. And the same thing goes with any leftovers — measure them out and then put them right in the freezer.
I love your tip about the water! Even though I always make sure to drink enough water through the day — I often forget it at mealtimes. It seems like a great way to slow down my eating!
Lena H. says
I follow you on Twitter (@lenaonthebeach)
Lena H. says
Tweeted! http://bit.ly/wgKvfM
Lena H. says
And I follow Oxo on Twitter (@lenaonthebeach) — LOVE their products!
Lena H. says
And now following you on Pinterest!
Alison @ Ingredients, Inc. says
super great giveaway! Awesome post
Dawn says
This is such a great giveaway! Thank you for sharing the tips you learned along the way!
Dawn says
I am following OXO on Twitter.
Dawn says
I am following Cookin’ Canuck on Twitter! (DaymiaMI)
Dawn says
I liked ‘Cookin’ Canuck on Facebook.
Dawn says
I am following ‘Cookin’ Canuck on Pinterest.
Marty says
Great tips. I agree, a kitchen scale is so important in keeping our serving sizes in check. Once you learn, you can rely on it less, but great to start.
Marty says
I tweeted about your giveaway.
Christina N says
Oooh I’ve been wanting a food scale for so
long! This looks like a great one!
Erica says
The first time I read a post in which you mentioned MyFitnessPal (weeks/months ago), I downloaded and tried it, but ended up deciding that it was too tedious to record all my meals, every day. When you posted again about your weight-loss journey (with the before and afters), you got my attention! I started using the app again and it has helped me lose 5 lbs in 2 weeks. Like you, my portions were out of whack and I was snacking a lot after dinner. The calorie counter helped motivate me to “be good” and cut out needless snacking!
Thanks so much for your bravery and honesty in sharing your success with all of us. Sometimes all that’s needed is a little inspiration to make a change 🙂
Randa says
The food scale looks Great!!! Also, great tips! Thanks for sharing
Katherine Martinelli says
These are really great tips, Dara! It’s something that I’ve realized I need to keep in mind more and more as my metabolism begins to slow. It ain’t what it used to be! I can definitely keep up with my husband in terms of portions, and he’s not only bigger than me but also exercises way more. What should be 4 portions for us is 2. Maybe it’s time for me to break out the scale! I also skip breakfast frequently, which I’ve read is not healthy. It’s better to get your metabolism started.
Great giveaway! 🙂
Raquelle says
Thanks so much for sharing these tips as well as the giveaway. I’ve been interested in weighing my food especially because, like you, I’m also on a weight loss and health journey and have been changing my eating style. I’d love to enter the giveaway, thank you so much for hosting it!
Raquelle says
I follow you on Twitter via @thoughtfuleats
Raquelle says
I tweeted your giveaway! https://twitter.com/#!/Thoughtfuleats/status/180368656868450304
Raquelle says
I already like you on Facebook!
Raquelle says
I follow OXO on Twitter via @thoughtfuleats
Melissa Calvin says
I follow OXO on twitter
Melissa Calvin says
I follow Cookin Canuck on Twitter
Melissa Calvin says
I like OXO on Facebook
Melissa Calvin says
I like Cookin Canuck on Facebook
Marty says
I am now following you on twitter.
Michelle says
I like OXO on twitter.
Michele says
it’s incredible how varied a serving of food is !
i too have an issue of shoving food in my face from the bag.. heh.
great tips, thank you so much n-n
Michele says
i like oxo on facebook !
Michele says
and i’m following oxo on twitter now too n-n
Rebekah DeLibro says
I first found you looking up a recipe and read your inspiring story and now I am doing myfitnesspal as well. It is eye opening!!! The recipe I tried was pasta salad with mint, basil and chicken. So yummy!! I have been doing great with my fitness pal however my difficult part of the month is coming up and I can already feel the cravings creeping up on me. I don’t own a scale of any kind in my home but will need to buy a body weight scale soon to track my weight. Thank you for all your helpful tips. I am going to follow you on twitter and Facebook as well!
Brigette says
Cool giveaway! Oxo is my favorite as well.
Jill Williams says
I have also measured things out to improve my portion control. I do pretty well at breakfast & lunch, but dinner portion control is a work in progress. 🙂
Elise says
I liked you on Facebook – I also use myfitness pal and have started measuring things, but the scale would be so nice to keep myself entirely honest!
Phyllis says
Just started some stretching exercises-portion control will definitely follow!
sara says
You’re right on with the portion control. I need a good reminder on that one. What a great giveaway.
sara says
tweeted https://twitter.com/#!/SaraMama/status/180514491740590080
sara says
follow you on twitter
@saramama
sara says
follow OXO twitter
@saramama
sara says
follow on pinterest
saramama
Alice C. says
I follow OXO on twitter (fa11enan9e1)
Alice C. says
I follow Cookin Canuck on Twitter (fa11enan9e1)
Alice C. says
I like OXO on Facebook
Alice C. says
I like Cookin Canuck on Facebook
yael says
This is so important , since I have always been a “quantity” eater and not a “quality” eater. I am working hard( it’s a constant battle) to learn how to quality and not quantity. Thanks for the post!
Virginia says
I sooo need a scale for portion control. I follow you through email. You look great!
Shoma says
Well done on your weight loss, Dara!
Sandi Benoit says
I never tried portion control, before. (Lord knows, I need to!!) What an incentive to try!!
Donna says
I’m on the same journey. Quite an eye opening experience, isn’t it! Congratulations on your success and wishing you years of continued success!
Donna says
I “like” OXO on FB.
Donna says
I like Cookin’ Canuck on FB.
Chris @ TheKeenanCookbook says
Portion control is my biggest problem (or going back for seconds). Great tips and great giveaway!
Chris @ TheKeenanCookbook says
I follow you on twitter!
amy warren says
these look amazing!
sarah says
What a wonderful give away. I don’t own a scale so I try to eyeball portions and I am sure I am off considerably. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
Terry Gtoss says
I follow OXO and cooking canuck om facebook.
MK says
good tips – thanks!
MK says
I Follow OXO on Twitter.
MK says
I “Like” OXO on Facebook.
MK says
mkvegas tweeted
Windy says
You are an inspiration! And those are some really helpful tips. I hadn’t thought about several of them. Thank you.
Cristen says
already follow oxo on twitter
Cristen says
already follow cookin’ canuck on twitter
Cristen says
already like oxo on facebook
Cristen says
like cookin’ canuck on facebook
Cristen says
follow you on pinterest
Bernice says
I follow OXO on Twitter.
Bernice says
I follow Cookin’ Canuck on Twitter.
Bernice says
I tweeted about the giveaway.
Bernice says
I liked Cookin’ Canuck on FB
Bernice says
I like OXO on FB
Bernice says
I followed Cookin’ Canuck on Pinterest.
Léa says
Congrats on your achievement !
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
I really need new measuring cups! I haven’t been using a scale, so I imagine that would come in handy, also. Thanks for the giveaway!
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
@Lexiquin follows @OXO on Twitter
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
@Lexiquin follows you on Twitter
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
Tweet! https://twitter.com/#!/lexiquin/status/180833686747480064
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
I like OXO on Facebook
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
I like you on Facebook
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
Shared on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/natalie.j.vandenberghe/posts/193749014062035
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
Following on Pinterest
Michelle says
Love My Fitness Pal – yet still struggling with portion control…
amy marantino says
i try to have a veggie course before the main meal, to fill me up with the good stuff so that i eat less of the heavy stuff.
Cori says
My scale broke a couple of months back, so it’s rough to bake as neatly! But on the portion control side, I realized I was eating around 800-1000 calories of trail mix a night! So THAT’S where my 8-miles of running is going. Awesome.
Julia says
I absolutely love this post! I’ve been trying to lose a couple pounds and have been really struggling! Being able to weigh my portions would be awesome 🙂
Julia says
Following OXO on twitter
Julia says
Following you on twitter 🙂
Julia says
I like OXO on facebook
Julia says
Liked Cookin’ Canuck on fb!
Lisa says
Portion contol is the hardest thing to do…a scale would help. Thanks for offering!
marla says
Love all of your tips Dara! I am keen on all of these 🙂
Julie B. says
Thanks so much for the giveaway! Here is my share link. http://www.facebook.com/OXO?ref=ts&sk=wall#!/permalink.php?story_fbid=352107108160865&id=100001065243325
Rebecca says
Portions can be sneaky little things. A sample here and there surprisingly add up quick. I haven’t done so well with it lately. Thanks for the reminder, need to jump back on that bandwagon!
Bonny says
Great post and great giveaway. I’ll definitely admit that my eating habits are nowhere near healthy. Thanks!
Carolyn says
I could really use a new kitchen scale. The one I have now is just barely holding together.
linda sch says
thanks. these type of posts are so encouraging.
Natalie Negroni says
the scale would come in hand so much!!
TJ says
Oh I would absolutely love this prize!!
TJ says
Following you on Twitter
TJ says
Following Oxo on Twitter
TJ says
Tweeted the giveaway
Tenesia says
Im loving the app you recommended! Now, I’m just getting used to everything but so far it truly is one of the best I have downloaded. I love the part where it says “if every day were like today’. Amazing! Can’t wait for your Canadian giveaways
Carmen says
I follow @cookincanuck (@cmouse01)
Carmen says
https://twitter.com/#!/cmouse01/status/181562511508779009
Briana Lopez says
Love your blog! Especially all the healthy recipes. I’m always looking for fast and easy things to make in the morning since its when I have less time 🙂
Aggie says
Portion control is definitely a challenge for me. Especially when it comes to snacking. I have to pull out the portion from the box, close the box and put the box away before I put that first snack in my mouth (I am referring to triscuits here 🙂 ) I tend to overdo it with anything crunchy and salty!
What a fantastic giveaway Dara!
Aggie says
I just liked Oxo on Facebook!
mark winslade says
i liked OXO on FB….
mark winslade says
and i liked Cookin’ Canuck of FB
TWILA says
I control portions by weighing…but I don’t have nearly of deluxe of a scale. Would love this to help me continue with my weight loss journey.
Aly says
Wow, these tools look great!!
Lynne says
I have liked OXO on facebook
Lynne says
I have liked Cookin Canuck on facebook
Melanie says
I would love to win these!
Melanie says
I like Cookin Canuck on facebook.
Melanie says
I like OXO.
MaryAnn D says
I liked Cookin’ Canuck on facebook.
MaryAnn D says
I liked Oxo on facebook.
Deanna says
I’m following you on Pinterest.
Jen Evison says
I’m also a huge fan of the OXO brand! I only use their storage containers now. I’ve also followed you and OXO on Twitter. Thanks for doing this fun giveaway!
Jo Harrington says
You look fab! Congratulations on your weight loss and healthier lifestyle. I have also lost a ton o’weight and know how much better it feels to be the “new” me. All the best to all of us on the giveaway!
Brandy Smith says
I like Cookin Canuck on fb
Brandy Smith says
I also follow you on pinterest.
Brandy Smith says
I like OXO on fb 🙂
Susan (Oliepants) says
What great tools! I absolutely know a scale would really help me keep account of how much I’m really putting on my plate!
Susan (Oliepants) says
I already follow you on Twitter! 🙂
Christine says
following on twitter
Christine says
following OXO on twitter
Christine says
tweeted about the giveaway
Christine says
liked on facebook
Christine says
liked oxo on facebook
Christine says
following on pinterest
Julie says
I like you on facebook!
Julie says
I like OXO on facebook!
Ashley says
Thanks so much for these helpful tips!!
Julie says
I follow you on pinterest!
Ashley says
I follow you on Twitter
Ashley says
I follow Oxo on Twitter
Ashley says
I follow you on Pinterest.
Windy says
I follow you on twitter. 🙂
Windy says
I Like you on Facebook, too.
Windy says
I also follow you on Pinterest. I stalk ya everywhere! hee hee
Windy says
I like OXO on Facebook.
Windy says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/windyphillips/status/182206910890643456
Linda W says
You have no idea how much this would help me!!
Linda W says
I liked Oxo on Facebook – I don’t do the twitter or have my own blog) Thank you for having this giveaway!! Good luck to me!
Linda A says
would love to win this!
Linda W says
* I liked YOU on Facebook!! Thank you for having this giveaway!! Good luck to me!
Kimby says
Dara, I was familiar with your “approximations” list, except a potato the size of a computer mouse. 🙂 Leave it to you to bring me up to speed with the 20th century! 🙂 (21st century?!) Thanks for your tips on healthy (and proportional) eating.
Cathey says
This is the next step that I need to add to my weight loss efforts. Thanks!
Jill Z says
I’m a big fan of counting ’em up – but haven’t made it to the scale stage yet…
katie d says
Way to go! You look great. I snack at the drop of a hat! So I have to tell myself that I don’t need the “cookie” or whatever it is I fancy. I really can often convince myself that I don’t have to eat snacks because I can eat a whole meal in a few of hours – its not starvation forever – just til dinner’s ready! And if I’m still tempted I try to eat an orange because that takes so much time to peel, then eat, that its closer to my next meal!! Yay! Mind you it doesn’t always work 🙁 lol
Katelyn says
I know I’m a little late commenting on this, but thought you might find this interesting. “How External Clues Make Us Overeat” :
http://www.thefreelibrary.com/_/print/PrintArticle.aspx?id=255363001
The article is a transcript of an interview with Brian Wansink, a professor at Cornell who has spent his career studying eating behavior.
cookingrookie says
Great post! I absolutely agree with 2,4,5. 1 and 3 would be really difficult for me to achieve :-). TV is my main entertainment during meals 😉 But to look like you do, I guess I have to try …
Juise says
Oh wow, these would be wonderful, and definitely help on my journey. 🙂 Thank you!
Amanda says
I’ve always considered using measuring cups to portion out my food, but I never considered using a scale until I could ‘eyeball’ correct portions! Genius!
Bonnie says
HI Dara,
I’m Also a Canadian living in the USA! I discovered your web site and you motivate me in keeping fit!
I love your recipes and the portion control and 4 rules did it for me
1 sit down
2smaller portions
3step away phone, computer TV when eating
4take sip of water after few bites of water
Also you made me realize my habit of eating when bored,angry ,tired, happy…. but reading it is powerful, realize that we are all the same ! You rock girl I love your web site wish can meet you one day!
MYRA says
A big thank you and many blessings!! You have helped me!!
Dara says
I’m so glad to hear that, Myra! Thank you for taking the time to comment.