Tips to avoid over eating

We've all been there. Eating huge meals—so big that you have to lean back, unbuckle your belt and pray you digest food fast enough so you don't explode. I do that more than I'd like to admit, especially at all-you-can-eat buffets. Those things are trouble for people looking to eat correct portions.

Here are some tips you can use to avoid over eating and stay within portion-controlled limits.

Slow down, chew with purpose: Take at least 20 minutes to consume a meal. Taking longer to eat will make you feel as though you are eating more. Enjoy the conversation and companionship.

Eat only while sitting down: Much extra food in consumed on the run. Making it a point to sit down while eating will help you think about how much you are consuming.

Eat off smaller plates!

Drink a 12 ounce glass of water before eating: It will take up room in your stomach and make you feel less hungry.

Wait 10 minutes before snacking: Between meal snacks are usually impulsive acts. A wait before eating them will often make you realize you aren't hungry after all.

Keep the right stuff up front: Make such foods as fruit and vegetables readily available by keeping them in the front of the refrigerator shelves.

Any other tips out there? The best ones might make the next magazine!