18 Habits That Tip the Scale in the Wrong Direction

meals

Ever step on the scale and think, “What’s going on?” You’re not alone. The average person gains about 1 to 2 pounds a year. That might not sound like a lot, but over time that adds up.

So what are you doing that’s tipping the scale in the wrong direction? Take a look at this list. If you’re guilty of any of these bad dietary habits, own it, and change your ways to manage your weight.

Eating fast
Choosing soda, coffee, and sugary drinks instead of water
Hanging out a lot (with friends, food, and drinks)
Sitting for hours every day (in your car, at work, at meals, in front of the TV or computer)
Skimping on sleep (most people need 7 to 9 hours a night)
All work and no play. You’re always stressed out and don’t take time to relax.
Eating large-portion sizes and/or going for seconds.
Munching your meals in front of the TV.
Not eating enough healthy, protein-rich foods (skinless poultry, fish, low-fat dairy, nuts and seeds)
Not eating enough fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, legumes
Always taking the easy way out. Elevator or escalator instead of the stairs. Driving around and around looking for a front-door parking spot, instead of walking.
Munching on unhealthy snacks because you didn’t have healthier options on hand.
Indulging in healthy, high-fat foods (coconut, avocado, nuts, olive oil)
Getting whatever sounds good or looks good while grocery shopping
Not eating enough fruits and vegetables (that’s what half your plate should include at meal time)
Drowning leafy-greens in salad dressing (it’s high in calories, and many dressings are even made with high-fructose corn syrup)
Eating at random times from day to day (it negatively impacts appetite, metabolism, and other things.)
Blowing your healthy eating habits and calorie-controlled diet every weekend and overeating

OK. So did you answer “yes” to any of these things? If you’re making any of these mistakes, you’re going to have a hard time tipping the scale in the right direction. The good news, you can change. Start now. And if you need a little help, check out the Portion-Control menu for healthy meals you can enjoy for breakfast, lunch or dinner.