The three S’s of mindful eating

When it comes to mindful eating, you may want to consider the “Three S’s.”

The first is “sit down while you eat.” The second is “slowly chew.” That can improve digestion and allow you to enjoy your food more, and “smile” between bites. Smiling releases neurotransmitters that make you happier and can reduce mindless or emotional eating.

“It is tempting to return to dieting, but research indicates that people who diet lose weight initially and then gain it back, plus additional weight. Instead, consider mindful eating. Mindful eating is not a diet, there are no menus or recipes. It’s more about focusing on how you eat,” said Dr. Susan Albers, PsyD, with Cleveland Clinic.

Some healthy snack options include Brazil nuts, mandarin oranges and berries, or anything high in Vitamin D or magnesium.