Mindful Eating

I can be a food detective by using my senses when I eat. When I slow down, it helps me really taste my food. For example, instead of eating a cookie while I watch TV, I can pay attention and notice the chocolate chips inside. This practice helps my brain and my tummy talk to each other so I know when I am feeling full.

I can go on a food adventure in five simple steps. First, I use my eyes to look at my food. I notice its different colors and shapes. Then, I use my nose to smell it and find out if it is sweet or savory. Next, I take just one small bite and notice how the food feels in my mouth before I start to chew. As I chew slowly, I use my ears to listen for any crunches, and I use my tongue to discover all the flavors. Finally, I listen to my tummy to check if it is still hungry or if it is feeling full.

Eating this way is helpful for my body. It helps me enjoy my food more, and it makes my tummy feel good because I chew everything well. This also teaches me to listen to my body's special signal that tells me when I am full. When I listen to that signal, I eat just the right amount of food. This gives me the energy I need for playing and for learning new things.