Ways to keep your waistline trim

Expert reveals mindless eating is preventing you from getting that perfect waistline.

You're in the middle of watching a movie and you end up finishing a whole bag of chips. Falling into this kind of trap can be easy, especially if you’re someone constantly on the go.

How do you prevent yourself from repeating this habit? It's all about mindful eating, an expert reveals. Being aware of what you consume and how much of it is crucial.

In a report by The Sun, Helen Bond, a nutritionist and spokeswoman for the British Dietetic Association, shares simple but effective tips.

1. Get rid of the gadgets: Staying away from your phone or iPad will help you focus better and be aware of the present. No distractions mean you can focus on the food and it will help you not eat so much. This is because you eat slowly and can register when you feel.

2. Pause between mouthfuls: Take a moment, put down your fork and sip a glass of water between each mouthful.

3. The right plate: Previous studies have shown size matters when it comes to your plates.  Bond says it's simple, smaller plates help you eat less.

4 Control your portion: Not focusing on how much you food you consume will have you going for that second and third serving. That is when you start to eat mindlessly. Paying attention to your portion is key.

5 Chat it out: Having a conversation with your family or friends can help you to pause between mouthfuls.

6 Take a break: It is a huge challenge for many people. But taking a break is important to enjoy and be aware of your meal.