Small Plates, Small Portions

Stop and think before you reach for that dinner plate. A smaller plate may be just the right size when it comes to weight loss.

It’s simple advice, really. Use a smaller plate, eat a smaller portion.

But does it work?

Apparently, it can.

Researchers studied the eating habits of first-graders who were allowed to serve themselves. They found that when the kids used larger dishes, they served themselves a larger helping and consumed almost 50 percent of the calories, which led to a greater energy intake.

The authors, whose study appears in the journal Pediatrics, recommend that parents use smaller dishes at home to help control portion size and caloric intake.

The study comes at a critical time for children’s health. In 2010, more than one-third of children and adolescents nationwide were overweight or obese, according to federal health statistics. In fact, childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and tripled in adolescents in the past 30 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Could this strategy work for adults?

Absolutely. But it takes a bit of willpower. Heading back to the kitchen for seconds or thirds could add up to more calories than you would eat by using a regular-sized plate.

Parents take note: the kids served themselves more fruit on the larger plates, but not more vegetables.

+ Learn more about helping children with weight loss through the Bon Secours Youth Fitness Program.

+ Need help balancing your diet? Talk to a Registered Dietitian.