The Washington Post's food critic, Tom Sietsema dines out like it's his job…because it is. He spends 40 hours a week in restaurants, sampling food, wine and desserts to review for The Post. To many, it may sound like a dream job. But to others, you may wonder how a job like that would affect your waistline.
In some ways, it is hard to say since Sietsema takes deliberate measures to keep his identity a secret. What does he really look like? Only a few really know.
But he is conscious about his weight. A recent profile by Andrew Alexander, the man who eats for a living shared four excellent tips that we can use to enjoy the foods we love and still manage our weights.
According to the article, Sietsema uses the following strategies to keep his weight in check:
- Exercise. We all know it burns calories and can help us manage our weight. Do it regularly and consistently and you'll help prevent weight gain associated with overeating and help boost your weight loss.
- Portion control. This simple strategy allows us to eat in moderation, enjoying rich, fattening or even so-called "bad" foods without going overboard. Get some portion tips here.
- Spoiling his desserts. He stops himself from overindulging in after-dinner treats by "salting desserts after a few bites to spoil them." Although many of us might scoff at the idea of wasting food like this, for some, food waste is the only means by which they can stop themselves from eating. I've never tried the salting strategy myself, but I can see how this would work if you just can't stop yourself from eating the food in front of you.
- Cooking simple, healthful meals at home. "When dining at home, Sietsema said he cooks 'simply' for health reasons because 'it's the one meal I can control.'" SparkPeople members overwhelmingly cook at home, not just to save money, but also to stay in control of the food, ingredients and cooking methods of their food. It's a crucial strategy for anyone who wants to eat healthier or manager their weight.
How many of these four strategies do you use to manage your weight? Have you ever tried the " salty" dessert trick?
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