Portion control 101
Eating healthier doesn’t have to be difficult when you have helpful tools on hand. Check out our “right-size it” tips and The Plate Method below. Both give you simple ways to learn how to size up your portions visually.
Right-size it
Eating out? When placing your order, avoid super-sizing. Opt for right-sizing instead. Many fast-food restaurants have nutrition information on their menus. Use it to make smarter choices. Only want half a portion? Split an item with a friend or save half for another meal. Here’s a fun way to visualize proper portion sizes using everyday objects:
- 1 ping-pong ball equals 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
- 1 deck of cards equals 3 ounces of meat, fish, or poultry
- 4 dice equal 1.5 ounces of cheese
- 1/2 a baseball equals 1/2 cup of cooked rice, pasta, or potatoes
Got a minute for The Plate Method?
It could help you change the amount of food on your plate without measuring. Once you know what a serving size looks like, then you can start learning about making healthier food choices. Check out the slideshow below to get started.