|
|
Preserving the Health of Our Culture. |
HomeAre you at risk for prediabetes? Understanding portion sizes TGMC's wound care & hyperbaric unit Our award-winning imaging center A medical checklist for adults A reminder for caregivers TGMC heroes Emergency care |
|
 |
|
Portion control "Would you like that supersized?" Too many of us say it: "Sure, supersize that order." And, as a result, Americans are heavier than ever. The statistics are alarming: A majority of adults (61 percent) are overweight. The number of obese adults has doubled in the past 20 years. And not only adults are affected. Obesity among children and adolescents has tripled since 1980, and it's continuing to rise. Being overweight can lead to diabetes, high blood pressure and other life-threatening diseases. A serving may equal more than one portion Obesity is an epidemic among Americans, and the size of our food portions is one reason. "You can't overestimate the importance of portion size," says Monica Walther, MS, a registered dietitian at Terrebonne General Medical Center. "Many people think the serving size at restaurants is the right amount to eat. But restaurant servings tend to be much larger than an actual appropriate portion. The restaurant serving can equal two or three portions!" Use visual hints to judge portion sizes You might find it easier to gauge portion sizes at home where you can weigh and measure your food. But when eating out, one way to watch your portions is to look at how you order. Do you really need a large order of fries, or could you split a small one with your co-worker? Wouldn't a small soda suit you just as well as the large? You might find that you're saying "yes" to larger portions without really thinking about it. 
A good way to determine correct portions is to compare 
|