Reducing Weight Without Dieting

Changing how foods are served and stored can help with weight loss — without leaving out foods or food groups, advises a U.S. newsletter.

To reduce weight or to maintain weight, the Mayo Clinic Health Letter advises selecting smaller bowls, plates and spoons for serving and eating. Studies show people eat more when food is served in or eaten from larger dishes or bowls.

After food is served, immediately store high-calorie leftovers in inconvenient locations or in opaque containers, the newsletter says. Seeing goodies can trigger the desire to eat. Food stored in a basement pantry is less tempting than leftovers on the kitchen counter, the newsletter says.

Keep healthy, low-calorie foods within sight and easy reach on the kitchen counter.

The Health Letter recommends buying small packages of high-calorie foods. Larger packages or larger portions often lead people to eat more than they would if the serving or package were smaller.