Ready to transform your relationship with food; while putting an end to late night cravings? Mindful eating practice can help you control emotional eating and how to deal with your feelings.

According to an article at helpguide.org, “Steps to Mindful Eating”

“This ancient practice can transform the way you think about food and set the stage for a lifetime of healthy eating.

Mindful Eating, Mindful Life, Dr. Lillian Cheung and her co-author,

Buddhist spiritual leader Thich Nhat Hanh, suggest several practices that can help you get there, including those listed below.

1. Begin with your shopping list. Consider the health value of every item you add to your list and stick to it to avoid impulse buying when you’re shopping. Fill most of your cart in the produce section and avoid the center aisles—which are heavy with processed foods—and the chips and candy at the check-out counter.
   2. Come to the table with an appetite—but not when ravenously hungry. If you skip meals, you may be so eager to get anything in your stomach that your first priority is filling the void instead of enjoying your food.
   3. Start with a small portion.It may be helpful to limit the size of your plate to nine inches or less.
   4. Appreciate your food. Pause for a minute or two before you begin eating to contemplate everything and everyone it took to bring the meal to your table. Silently express your gratitude for the opportunity to enjoy delicious food and the companions you’re enjoying it with.
   5. Bring all your senses to the meal. When you’re cooking, serving, and eating your food, be attentive to color, texture, aroma, and even the sounds different foods make as you prepare them. As you chew your food, try identifying all the ingredients, especially seasonings.
   6. Take small bites.It’s easier to taste food completely when your mouth isn’t full. Put down your utensil between bites.
   7. Chew thoroughly. Chew well until you can taste the essence of the food. (You may have to chew each mouthful 20 to 40 times, depending on the food.) You may be surprised at all the flavors that are released.
   8. Eat slowly. If you follow the advice above, you won’t bolt your food down. Devote at least five minutes to mindful eating before you chat with your tablemates.” To read the entire article click here.

ABC Nutrition Services is designed to allow clients to achieve healing form bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, or emotional eating. If you or a loved one may be suffering from an eating disorder in the Reno area, contact ABC Nutrition Services at 775-329-0505 or visit ABCNutritionServices.com.