Portion Size

I just read a fascinating article about a (very) small study on why people overeat – even when they are full. These researchers believe there is a link between overeating (beyond our physiological need) and two naturally-produced compounds. One of them is a hormone, and I swear, hormones are to blame for everything.

This topic of overeating despite feeling full made me think of the proposed ban on large-sized sodas in New York City. I have mixed feelings on this. I agree that people will not necessarily drink less soda, although some might. I honestly wish soda (and all sugary beverage) sizes had never gotten as big as they did. Was that something the public demanded, or did the beverage companies thrust that on us? Who knows. It doesn’t matter at this point.

What matters is that we realize it’s all about choices. We can choose to drink less sweetened beverages, save calories – and money! – and help our bodies in the long run. We can choose to drink more water, for that matter. And we can choose to indulge when we are so moved. I think smaller-sized beverages is a nice idea, but since the proposal appears to have tons of holes and inconsistencies in it, I’m not sure it would make much of a difference.

What do you think about all this? How do you stick with moderation despite all the temptations (physiological and other)?

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