New Year, New Habits: 5 Expert Tips for Successful Weight Loss

Make food less visible in your home.

• Store all food out of sight. Try to keep food off of the counters.
• Put your trigger foods in hard to reach places.
• When serving meals, keep pots or serving platters on the stove—not on the table.

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Change your food shopping habits.

• Avoid grocery shopping on an empty stomach.
• Make a shopping list and stick to it.
• Shop the supermarket “walls.” Avoid temptation by avoiding the aisles. Most whole foods are found along the perimeter of the store.
• Buy only the items that are necessary for you and your family.
• Avoid buying food items for other people that you may eat.
• If another family member is bringing trigger foods into your home, it is helpful to discuss how this affects you.

Slow down.

• When eating a meal, start with protein first and then vegetables.
• Stop eating after 30 minutes. Do not try to “finish” a meal.
• Take small bites and chew food to a liquid texture before swallowing.
• Savor each bite. Pay attention to flavors, textures and consistency.

Portions are important.

• Carefully measure your food before eating. 
• Put all extra food away before eating.
• Use small dishes, utensils and glasses. This will make your portions look bigger.
• Practice leaving something on your plate.

Make eating an isolated activity.

• Choose a spot at home just for eating. The best bets are the dining room or kitchen table.
• Make a rule to sit whenever you put something in your mouth.
• Focus on only eating—no TV, no phone.

At Overlake, we understand the challenges you face, and we are here to support you on your weight-loss journey. Overlake's Bariatric Surgery Program offers an array of treatment options tailored to your individual needs, empowering you to achieve your weight-loss goals and regain control of your health.