Portion Guide

Definition

A portion guide is a tool that helps you determine the right serving sizes of various foods to maintain a balanced diet.

Scientific / Technical Definition

A portion guide serves as a framework to assist individuals in understanding the recommended amounts of different macronutrients and caloric intake for optimal health and weight management. It typically includes visual or measurement aids to specify appropriate serving sizes, helping to avoid overconsumption or underconsumption of nutrients.

Benefits

• Helps manage weight by controlling calorie intake
• Supports balanced nutrition by promoting the right proportions of food groups
• Reduces the risk of overeating and associated health issues like obesity
• Encourages mindful eating habits

Examples

• Using a fist to estimate a serving of rice or pasta
• A deck of cards to visualize a serving of meat or protein
• A cupped hand to measure a portion of vegetables

Additional Information

• Importance: Portion guides are crucial for anyone looking to control their diet effectively, ensuring they consume a variety of foods without exceeding their caloric or nutritional needs.

Related Terms

• Serving Size
• Caloric Intake
• Balanced Diet
• Nutritional Guidelines

References

• The Importance of Portion Control
• Portion Control Tips from the American Heart Association