Eating has become mechanical. Oftentimes, we eat even if we're not hungry. We eat socially (e.g., restaurant). We eat for pleasure (that chocolate bar). We eat out of anger, or because we feel empty.

Are you eating right now?

Are you hungry right now?

If you answered yes to the first question, I hope you also answered yes to the second. Maybe you haven't: often we eat without being hungry. This unquestionably leads to overeating. Repeated over time, overeating becomes a habit. And the more you overeat, the more likely you'll end overweight.

The body knows. It knows exactly how much energy it needs. Listening to your body and to your hunger is the first step toward better eating habits. It's the focus of this tip and the next few.

ACTION STEP 14

"Am I hungry?" Ask yourself this question next time you're about to eat. If you're not, delay that meal or take a tiny serving. After all, you're not hungry: this food is headed straight your fat stores.

ACTION STEP 14 REVISITED

Develop the habit of asking yourself if you're hungry before you eat anything. You'll be surprised. When not hungry, skip the meal or take a smaller serving.