Navigating The Buffet
There are few people who will turn down a buffet, especially when the smorgasbord has all of their favorites. The problem with buffets, however, is the lack of portion control. Most people will heap their plate with all their favorite foods then return to the buffet line for a second or even third helping. This means you could inadvertently eating several servings of a single item, racking up the calories rather quickly.
Since avoiding buffets is not realistic for most individuals, you need to learn how to navigate them better. This means practicing some self-control and recognizing portion sizes.
The first step to avoiding overeating at a buffet is to grab a smaller plate. The smaller the plate, the less food you can pile onto it. Grab smaller portions of the foods you like then return to your seat. Eat that portion slowly. Listen to your body. If you are still hungry, go back to the line and prioritize vegetables with lots of fiber. Keep in mind that it takes about 20 minutes for your brain to recognize a full stomach. By eating slowly and choosing foods that promote satiety, you can avoid stuffing yourself to the max.
