What are some tips for managing portion sizes to help control blood sugar levels?
### Tips for Managing Portion Sizes to Control Blood Sugar Levels
1. **Measure and Weigh Your Food**: Using measuring cups and a food scale can help you understand proper portion sizes. For example, one slice of bread, one-third cup of cooked rice, or one tennis-ball-sized apple each contain about 15 grams of carbs.
2. **Use Visual Cues**: When eating out, compare portions to familiar objects. For example, 1 cup is about the size of a baseball, and a serving of meat (3 ounces) is about the size of a deck of cards.
3. **Read Food Labels**: Pay attention to serving sizes on food labels. If you eat more than the serving size, adjust the nutritional information accordingly.
4. **Avoid Sugary Drinks**: Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or sparkling water instead of sugary drinks like soda and juice, which can spike blood sugar levels.
5. **Use Smaller Plates**: Using smaller plates can help control portion sizes and prevent overeating.
6. **Ask for a To-Go Box**: When dining out, ask for a to-go box at the beginning of your meal and pack away half of your entrée to avoid overeating.
7. **Keep a Food Log**: Recording what you eat and your blood sugar levels can help you understand how different foods affect your blood sugar.
8. **Choose Healthy Snacks**: Opt for protein-only snacks like hard-boiled eggs or non-starchy veggies to avoid blood sugar spikes between meals.
9. **Avoid Buffets**: Buffets can lead to overeating, which is risky for blood sugar control. Stick to single servings instead.
10. **Be Mindful of Supersized Portions**: Large portions, especially in restaurants, can lead to overeating. Stick to recommended portion sizes to avoid excess calorie intake.