We've Been Super Sized!

Bear with me here.  Quite some time ago the FDA did a survey to understand what was the customary amount of food people 4 years of age and older consumed per eating.  From that they established the RACC or "reference amount customarily consumed." Those established amounts are still used on packages. For example, one serving of oreo cookies is "x" number of calories - based on one serving being 2 COOKIES.  So that stat probably doesn't look bad when you're checking labels, but who eats two oreo cookies?

Problem is we've been super sized and there is a huge distortion between the recommended serving size and the actual serving size.  Pair that with generations of kids who were told to "clean your plate" and processed foods sweeping the Nation in the (was it the 50's or 60's?), it's no wonder obesity is a problem.

So let's think "Super Shrink." (and I'm not talking about my therapist)

As you can see, without us really noticing, our expected portion sizes have ballooned (and so have we.)

Think about filling your gas tank. You wouldn't consider continuing putting gas in your tank once it's full.  Our bodies are no different.

We can thank food establishments (mostly fast foods) for this over sizing of our portions but the key is to not be fooled by "portion distortion." The best way to avoid this is to avoid establishments that super size our portions and prepare fresh, whole foods at home.  Or frequent establishments that promote sustainable, whole, locally grown food. There are plenty out there and it's so refreshing to read about chef's that are totally into serving us healthy, unadulterated, good food.