3 Bite Rule

It's that time of year. Birds are singing. Flowers are blooming. Pale arms and legs are making an appearance. Have you tried on last summer's shorts? How's that bathing suit treating you?The grass may just seem greener on the other side. Never fear. You can feel good about yourself this Spring and Summer. It's never, ever too late. So what to do?

Tired of weighing things, counting points and worrying about carbs? If so, it might be time to consider a new approach. Have you heard of the 3 bite rule? Mireille Guiliano talks about it in her book, French Women Don't Get Fat. She says if you want to indulge in something, limit yourself to three bites and then move on. In three bites you've experienced it.

Another website, www.wavybrains.com, said something similar: The first bite of something is the best, the second confirms it, and the third is to be savored. After that it's all downhill.

Makes sense, doesn't it? Next time you are faced with a 1200 calorie plate of nachos try savoring just three cheesy, meaty, gooey bites. Any more than that and you're likely to regret it.

Chocolate cake? Do you really need the calories and guilt from the entire piece? Take one bite of chocolaty goodness and really enjoy it. Take another bite and notice the moist texture. Don't think of the third bite as the last but as the best way to enjoy without guilt. It's not the last bite you'll ever have, right?

This just might be the "diet" you are looking for. Try not labeling foods as "good" or "bad". Don't tell yourself that this is the last piece of pizza you'll ever have. Focus on moderation and enjoyment instead of restrictions and ultimatums. It is often our attitudes about food, not the food itself that is our downfall. Give it a try. Be kind to yourself. Enjoy!