When it comes to weight control, portion control is one great way to keep unwanted pounds at bay. Take note of these serving size examples (in case you find yourself somewhere where measuring tools are not available) to help you gauge how much you should be eating. WARNING: Some of these serving sizes may come as a surprise to you, especially if you eat out a lot and are familiar with serving sizes that some restaurants take to the tables.
Bread — One serving size of bread (1 piece of bread, 1 waffle, or 1 pancake) is about the size of one standard CD case.
Cheese — One serving size of dairy is about four small pieces of cheese.
Fish — One serving size of fish (3 ounces) is about the size of your checkbook.
Fruit — One serving size of fruit is about the size of a tennis ball.
Hamburger Patty — One serving size of a hamburger patty is about the size of a hockey puck.
Meat — One serving size of meat (3 ounces) is about the size of a bar of soap.
Oil — One serving size of fats or oils (1 teaspoon) is about the size of your thumb.
Pasta — One serving size of cooked pasta (1/2 cup) is about the size of your fist.
Peanut Butter — One serving size of peanut butter (2 tablespoons) is about the size of a ping pong ball.
Vegetables — One serving size of vegetables (1 cup) is about the size of a baseball.
One way to keep from overeating in one sitting, whether you are at home or at a restaurant, is to serve yourself the proper serving size and then put the extra food away. Or if you are at a restaurant with friends, you can ask someone if they would like to share a meal.