5. Correct bad eating habits

We eat not only for nourishment, but also as part of our social interactions. Here are a few suggestions that may keep you out of trouble in 'Calorie Land'.

• Don't eat on the run. With the abundant availability of convenience foods, it is very easy to grab something from a fast food restaurant and eat in your car. Plan your schedule to include enough time to prepare and eat your meals in a quiet place, without the rush.
• Avoid comfort eating. (aka eating to relieve stress) We have all been there. Reach for the ice cream because our boss is mean, or wolf down an entire chocolate brownie when we're overwhelmed by project deadlines. Try not to use food as the primary stress reliever. Instead find other outlets of release such as chilling out with your girlfriends, catching a good comedy with your family, or joining an exercise class.
• Don't mix food with entertainment. Have you ever eaten an entire tub of popcorn while mindlessly watching TV? Make eating a separate activity and you will eat less.