Portion size
Portion Size
Portion size (pronunciation: /ˈpɔːrʃən saɪz/) refers to the amount of a specific food or drink that is generally served or consumed in one sitting. It is a key factor in nutrition and dietetics, and plays a significant role in weight management and obesity prevention.
Etymology
The term "portion" originates from the Latin word "portio", meaning "share" or "part". The term "size" comes from the Old Norse "síza", which means "to measure". Together, "portion size" refers to the measured part or share of food or drink.
Related Terms
- Serving size: The standardized amount of food used to provide nutritional information on food labels. It may not reflect the typical portion size consumed.
- Calorie: A unit of measurement for energy. The number of calories in a portion can influence weight gain or loss.
- Nutrient density: The amount of nutrients per calorie in a food. Foods with high nutrient density are often recommended in smaller portion sizes.
- Energy density: The amount of energy (or calories) per gram of food. Foods with high energy density are often recommended in smaller portion sizes.
Importance of Portion Size
Understanding portion sizes is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet and preventing overeating. Consuming large portion sizes can lead to an excess intake of calories, potentially resulting in weight gain and associated health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Conversely, consuming portion sizes that are too small can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
Portion Size Control
Portion size control involves consciously adjusting the amount of food consumed at each meal or snack. This can be achieved through various strategies, such as using smaller plates or bowls, pre-portioning snacks, and being mindful of hunger and fullness cues. Portion size control is often recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to weight management and overall health.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Portion size
- Wikipedia's article - Portion size
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