If your mother told you “eat your vegetables” now is the time to really listen to her and if you have already been listening then she deserves a big “thank you” . More good news about plant foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, is that they are typically lower in calories and more filling than other foods that come from an animal. This is especially true if you are eating fresh fruits and vegetables.

Whole grains are typically low in calories and also very filling as well depending on their fiber content. A simple rule of thumb is this: the more processed the food, the higher the calories.

Another concept that is simple but not easy for many people to put into action is portion control. I was chatting with a friend of mine one day about the differences between American eating habits and those in his home country in Asia.  Continue reading →