Recognizing "Real Hunger"

For many people the first twinge of hunger sends them searching for food, often before they need to eat. Feeling hungry at the start of a meal is good, but knowing when you could wait longer is also important.
 
  Ask yourself these questions before your next meal:

•  Am I hungry?
If you're not sure, wait 20 minutes and ask again.
•  When was the last time I ate?
If it's less than three hours, it may not be real hunger.
•  Could a small snack tide me over until the next meal?
Try and have ready-to-eat fruit or vegetables on hand.

If you can't recognize when you're hungry, make a schedule. Eat small meals every three to four hours until you learn what actual hunger feels like. If you overeat at a meal, get back on track at the next one.
 
Produced by ADA 's Public Relations Team