Instead of counting calories or going to the gym, eating with your non-dominant hand could help you lose weight, according to social psychologist Professor Richard Wiseman, who said, 'mindful eating' may be the key to a healthier lifestyle. However, the psychologist believes that strange tactics such as eating with a different hand and keeping a mirror in the kitchen can trick the brain into eating less. Eating with your non-dominant hand is 'one of the most enjoyable ways' to train yourself to eat less, according to what Professor Wiseman said on his podcast On Your Mind. 'That means it actually takes longer and it's more mindful to eat because you need to sort out coordination issues and so on, so you end up eating less. Now that's really simple, but actually pretty effective', says Professor Wiseman from the University of Hertfordshire. Ekta Singhwal, dietician at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, agreed saying while it may not directly cause weight loss, it can promote awareness of your eating habits. "This can help you recognise fullness cues, reduce overeating, and make healthier food choices," she explained. According to a 2013 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, focusing on what's on your plate has been proven to affect how much food you eat. Researchers examined 24 studies and discovered that distracted or hurried eating causes you to eat more, whereas savouring food by eating at a leisurely pace with no distraction can help you regulate how much you eat in a sitting. Another technique to be more aware of what you're eating is to literally watch yourself eat in front of a mirror. Professor Wiseman stated that the mirror theory was developed by American psychologist Brad Bushman. 'As soon as people could see their own reflection, they became more self-conscious and they shifted to the healthier food', the professor said of the experiment Bushman conducted. Using this logic, Professor Wiseman proposes installing a mirror in the kitchen to help you become more aware of what you eat. Other non-traditional methods that can influence weight loss include acupuncture and acupressure, said Singhwal. "Some people use these techniques to reduce cravings and stress-related eating, potentially aiding in weight management," she explained. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before trying any non-traditional weight loss methods to ensure they are safe and suitable for your individual needs and health goals. 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
