Food Diaries

According to a recent article in HealthDay keeping a "food diary" is just what you need to help you lose weight.

The article also states that the American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions for keeping a food diary:

Don't change your eating routine, unless your doctor suggests this.

Track which foods you eat and how much. Don't forget to include snacks, beverages, side items, sauces, dressings or dips.

Each time you eat, write down the time of day, where you were, and if you were alone or with someone else. Enter these details immediately after you finish eating.

Note how you felt while you were eating -- happy, sad, anxious, etc.

Jot down what you were doing while you were eating, such as working, watching TV or reading a book.

Be honest, and don't leave anything out.