One of the best ways to monitor and manage your calorie intake to achieve your weight loss goals is practicing mindful eating. Whether it’s a meal, a snack, or a single bite – all foods and beverages we eat and drink add up! It can be hard to always practice mindful eating. I often find it’s easier to eat mindfully when you have an eating schedule in mind.

Creating a regular eating schedule not only helps provide structured eating habits, but it also helps keep hunger in check to avoid overeating or making unhealthy choices due to lack of planning. Pick a time within the first hour or two of waking up for breakfast, 4-5 hours later plan a break for lunch and then 4-5 hours later plan for dinner. It can be difficult with work, friends and family, and other responsibilities for meals go no longer than 4-5 hours apart, in those instances try and plan a portion controlled, healthy snack to keep hunger in check to avoid having to resort to vending machines or fast food stops. Creating a flexible eating routine is one of the best ways to eating mindfully throughout the day.