Because eating out has become routine rather than a special occasion, here are some practical steps to avoid overindulging:

• Ask for the smallest - not the biggest - portion size available.
• Share an entree with a friend.
• Eat bread with your meal rather than before the meal.
• Make just one trip to the buffet table.
• Never go hungry to a function serving food. Eat a small bowl of soup, a piece of fruit or a salad before you go to avoid the temptation to overeat.
• Cut the serving in half; eat half now, save the rest for later.