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A Great Tool For Getting Portion Sizes Under Control (Giveaway)

February 2, 2012   286 Comments

Back in December, I reviewed a fun plate that kids can use to help understand portions (see here: portion size plates. What about adults?

EatSmart Kitchen Scale

How about a less fun but incredibly helpful scale? As we move away from eating out and start cooking for ourselves, we need a way to size up our foods to determine how much we are eating.

How do you make it work for you? Well, let's say you want to have some cheese and crackers. Your crackers are packaged so you know they are about 20 calories each and then you look at your cheese. Unless it is pre-portioned, you have to guess how much a one ounce portion will be.

So, you cut off a slice and hope that you got it right. Cheese is a fairly high calorie food as is red meat, bacon, and cooked pasta. How much did you really eat? If you have a scale, then you know the EXACT amount.

The scale takes the guess work out of portion size and it TEACHES you over time to estimate how much you are eating. Some of us need this tool to get our eating under control.

If you snuck a scale into a restaurant, I bet you would be shocked at the portion sizes. I wonder what would happen if you started measuring your entree at Chili's?

This scale, the "EatSmart Precision Pro", is super easy to use. I've only had it a couple of weeks but on Amazon.com there are over 2000 positive reviews. It comes with a booklet that will help you calculate the number of calories in your measured serving of food.

I also use it for recipes when it calls for "one pound of potatoes". I just put a bowl on the scale, hit TARE, and then load it up. It has ounces, grams, pounds, and kilograms.

This is a great tool for making your own 100 calorie snack packs. Don't buy the prepackaged ones - use a scale!

EatSmart Products is giving away one EatSmart Precision Pro Kitchen Scale ($25 value) to a lucky reader. Comment below on how you control portion size to enter.

Please check out EatSmart on Facebook and Twitter.

This product was received for review consideration. No other compensation was provided.

What will I win?
An EatSmart Precision Pro Kitchen Scale ($25.00 retail value).

How do I enter?
Comment below on how you control portion size.

Additional Ways To Enter:

  1. Follow Snack-Girl on FaceBook. Comment on the FB page on how you control portion size.
  2. Follow Snack-Girl on Twitter and Tweet this post (use the Tweet Button in the Share Box at the top of this post).
Snack-Girl can follow and count all the additional entries using magical website tools.

Am I eligible to enter?
This giveaway is offered to US residents only.

When do I find out if I am the winner?
The randomly chosen winner will be announced on February 9th, 2012. You will have 2 weeks to e-mail us back with your home address so we can mail the prize.

Get Free Email Updates! Yes please!

286 Comments:

That scale would awesome and vital my portion control consist of measuring everything; literally washing my measuring utensil every second...well that's what it feels like. How do I measure my chicken breast? I guesstimate :/ Now that I have been counting calories, it would be nice to be accurate.

I always try to use cups or a scale to measure; it's really the most accurate way. No eyeballing here.

I eat already proportioned food.

Measure, measure, measure.

Spoons & cups are great, but scales really eliminate the guesswork! Precision is key to portion control!

I use measuring cups and spoons like they are going out of style! Portion control is so important !

I eyeball. I know it isn't the best way, but I am new to proportioning :/

I control my portion sizes by following WW Points Plus. I use a lot of measuring cups and spoons. It helps me to stay on plan but I know the scale would help me take my measurements to the next level. I have about 80 lbs to lose.

I measure all my food!

At the moment, I measure most portions by the cup or the spoonful; I cut hard cheeses into half-inch cubes; I guesstimate meat portions by the deck-of-cards method. It's all so frustratingly imprecise. I would LOVE to be able weigh out portions on an easy-to-use scale but that isn't in the budget right now.

I always try to measure my portion sizes but know that they are not always accurate. I would LOVE to win this scale!

I purchased some smaller "salad" size plates that I use instead of the larger dinner sized plates.

I use a WW version of a scale (but it's with the old points system) and try to use measuring spoons, etc... i even keep a set at work!

and I liked you on FB!

Unfortunately I eyeball -- and really could use a more precise way of measuring!

We measure everything! I had to buy more measuring cups and spoons. :-) A scale would be so helpful!

I use a smaller plate, measuring cups and spoons when I can.

A year or two ago, my wife and I bought a bunch of Oxo Pop (I think that's the name) containers into which we put our normal foods/ingredients. I also bought about eight sets of measuring cups and measuring spoons from the dollar store and I put the one-serving-size measuring cup (or measuring spoon) into each one. So into the oatmeal container went the one-serving 1/2 cup measuring cup, and so on.

I'm not sure how good or bad we were at estimating in the past, but I think one thing it has definitely helped was to rein in thoughts like, "I'll just have a few shelled pistachios" and seven bags of pistachios later, you're like, "ugh, that was way more than one serving." :P

In cases where the serving size is determined by ounces, I'd weigh the ounce(s) using an ancient scale we picked up at a garage sale to identify the right measuring cup/spoon to use to achieve that weight. (We had accumulated a bunch of protein-powder scoops over time, and not infrequently, they were right on the money for one-ounce measures.)

I can't speak for my wife (who I think would echo my sentiment), but I'm certainly glad that I ditched the guessing game.

I preportion my snacks in little snack bags perfect for my work lunch box and specifically portioned out. Thanks so much for the giveaway!

I would love to have this sleek scale in order to accurately portion out my food!

Measuring cups are a perfect tool for me to measure my portions. This scale would come in very handy for my family too! Thanks so much :)

I use a weighing scales to judge my portions. I weigh everything from pasta and rice to meat and fish! I especially have to weigh my cheese because what is an actual porition and what I think is an acceptable portion are two extremely different things!! Need a good scales like this to help me reduce for my wedding!

I've been on WW Maintenance for 2 years after losing 60 pounds! I measure my food/portions whenever possible. I "pre-package" my own portions for on the go eating. This scale would give that "extra" edge at work to be able to STAY on Maintenance!

Smaller plates mean that I put less on the plate and tell myself there's no room for second helpings either! I could really use this scale for my New Years diet resolutions too! :)

i could really use this scale. i am a ww member and use measuring cups,spoons and an old kitchen scale. recently i used the top cup portion in my microwave and it is now out of shape like me!!!

I have been measuring religiously for the last few months and have lost 17 pounds thus far! A scale would be amazing for getting the exact weight for meats. I've been buying individually wrapped chicken, but it's a very expensive habit. I'd love to be able to buy bulk packages and weigh them on my own scale!

As a Weight Watchers leader, I 'practice what I preach'......I use my scale and measuring cups/spoons all the time. I like to tell my 'newbies' to measure their cereal the next time they have that for breakfast; that's a really good example to show how we don't know portion sizes. Good luck to everyone!

I have a scale, which I use very frequently. I used to it weigh out pretzels, cheese, cereal...it's easier to weigh out pretzels than count out however many is the serving size. My scale is only ounces and pounds, so winning this scale would be awesome!!! But even if I don't win, thanks for posting about what really seems to be a better scale. When my scale goes, I'm going to look at this one!

i always use measuring cups and spoons! it's a habit now!

I use measuring cups and make up single serving portions ahead of time so it is quick and easy...I lost 92 pounds and have maintained that weight loss for two years and I am thinking that this scale would help me continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle! Thanks and have a great day!

I was once taught that your stomach (the actual organ) is only as big as your fist, so when you sit down to eat, your portion should only be as big as what your fist could hold--and that is not much! I usually put my meals on a smaller plate rather than a big dinner plate so it looks like my plate is fuller.

I measure everything not pre-portioned with cups and measuring spoons. For things like meat, I usually find out the weight on the package, and divide it by how many pieces there are (like chicken breasts) to get a mostly accurate (I hope!) measurement. A kitchen scale would help sooo much though! I've wanted one for a while now.

I religiously use measuring cups for EVERYTHING, it helps then when I go out because I visually know what one cup looks like!

I either use measuring cups or eyeball it. The scale would be great to have :)

Like Kristen above, I use the salad size plates instead of dinner plates. I don't have a big problem with portion control, so that method works for me (but I would love the scale for cooking . . .).

I try to measure my food. It really makes a difference. Using a scale is a great way to do it.

I try to measure everything, either by counting out the pieces or by weighing or measuring (cup/spoon) but my old WW scale has seen better days it is getting finicky and cuts off unexpectedly or give wrong amounts. I have been looking for a good moderately priced scale to replace it...

For the most part I just use measuring cups. I have to guess pretty much like stated above. I would soooo love to have this scale. It will take out all of the guesswork!

I use measuring cups but sometimes I just guesstimate!

I used measuring cups when I first started dieting and I was shocked at what I considered a portion and what really was a portion. I do have a problem with meat, It is hard to measure 2 or 4 ounces in a measuring cup.

I would love to have this scale. At the present time I am using an inexpensive awkward scale that I purchased. I'm not sure it's always accurate. However at present finances don't allow the expenditure of this much admired scale.

I try to eyeball my portions and when I go to a restaurant, I split my meal in 1/2 and only eat that amount, the rest goes home with me for another day. I also use the rule of thumb with a portion of protein no bigger than a pack of playing cards, a portion of cheese being the size of one die, etc.

Pre-portioned foods are great, but they are too expensive. I currently use the Biggest Loser scale from Bed, Bath, and Beyond, but this scale would be useful to keep in the pantry for when we are fetching pasta, beans, and egg noodles.

Right now I just use my measuring cups, a scale would be awesome!

I am new here and this tool would help me learn the correct way to portion control.

I love to measure/weight my food. I find that by guessing I always underestimate and could get more than I am giving myself!

I am a life time at goal Weight Watcher, portion control is the most important part of the program!

PS - I visit your site often, but this is the first time I have commented! - Love you Snack Girl!!

I would eye portions

I only measure my portions for cups, tbs and tsp. I've been considering a scale for ounces and grams because I do have a hard time figuring out meansurements like 3 oz of chicken breast.

I try to use measuring cups most of the time... but it's frustrating to keep rewashing them over and over! a food scale would be very helpful to me!

I use measuring cups and an ancient spring scale that I know is not accurate, but better than nothing. The last time I made homemade rolls, I weighed out 3 oz. balls of dough & they did not end up the same size. A digital scale would be a blessing!

I read labels, I count out pieces! I guesstimate, and I will go to the deli counter and ask for my turkey in ounces! Sometimes I will use a measuring cup :-)

Portion control is difficult. I try to do the best I can, but invariably I don't always succeed.

Measuring cups and spoons are my go-to tools. Serving sizes are deceiving!

We've decided to do this as a family project. Not only for weight loss, but for a totally healthier lifestyle. Currently, we're using standard measuring methods, ie. measuring cups, spoons etc. but this scale would make it so much easier for everyone!

I already use measuring cups, spoons, and even a non-digital scale. My problem comes in when the nutrition facts say, 1/3 of package. I can see how this digital scale would allow me to weigh the whole, cooked package, and then dole out what I should eat. Fantastic!

I use measuring cups and spoons. I have several sets, so I'm not constantly washing them just to add dressing to my salad.

I measure everything and use a smaller plate so the portions look bigger!

When out... I always cut the plate in half and if possible I ask for ways to pack up beforehand.

Otherwise I often look like I'm giving the meat portion of dinner a high-five as I cut around the portion until it's the size of my hand :)

I measure my food using my Grandmother's old measuring cups! Would love to win the scales. I have lost 53 lbs with Weight Watchers!!

Sometimes I measure and sometimes I just eyeball it. It depends on how big of a hurry I'm in.

I use smaller plates.

My measuring cups are quite often my bowl. :) I have wanted a kitchen scalE like this for years!

I use measuring cups which work well for some foods & not so well for others. I also use baggies & those glass bowls like the Pyrex ones with lids so I won't have to guess when I'm really hungry or in a hurry. I have learned to guess some serving sizes by the deck of cards for meat & dice for cheese but I would like my servings (especially meat)to be more accurate.I almost always use a smaller plate too. That helps a lot but when you're really hungry it's too easy to just pile the food a little higher on the plate which defeats the purpose of using the smaller plate in the first place. Sometimes my "eyeball" measuring is not very accurate. I've thought about purchasing a food scale but I really can't afford it plus my husband thinks it would be a waste of money. He doesn't see the need to measure anything unless he's using a recipe. I need to measure everything or my portions tend to get way out of proportion. I would love to have this scale. I don't think my husband would object to a freebie. Maybe he would end up using it too after seeing how useful & easy it would be to help with the food preparation! I'm also trying to teach my teen son about portion control and healthier eating so I think a food scale would make it more fun for him to learn. Thanks for all of your tips & recipes. I have lost about 20 pounds so far but I still have a lot more to lose.

smaller plates and bowls; measuring cups and spoons. scales are so much more precise!

I just use a normal little scale from Wal-mart that I got a long time ago. Plus I use cups and measuring spoons. This scale would be great for me to use.

I am so glad you have written about this because I odten have trouble with portion size. I tend to juat buy foods that have the specific number of say crackers are kn a portion instead of ones that have a weight. as a collegw student, I am trying to always save money and it adds up buying the 100 calories packs so I am glad there is a tool I can use to make my own!

Since I have Type 2 diabetes, portion control is an absolute must! I use a lot of measuring cups and spoons. For items like meat, cheese, etc, I usually "eyeball"...and of course not as accurately as I should.

I use a smaller plate so it looks like I have more on the plate than if I used a larger plate.

I control my portion sizes by packing my plate with fruits and veges (no control needed). Then i use the old dieticien suggestions (deck of cards for protein, closed fist for pasta and two of my fingers for an ounce of cheese.

Must have!! I always try as best as I can to portion things, but I know things aren't always accurate. For example sweet potato fries if a serving size says 84 g (24 fries) I hate having to rely on 24 fries. They're all different sizes! Would be so much more accurate to use weight!!

I use a postage scale and count things out,ie: 15 crackers or grapes....

I eyeball it, it's not a very accurate way but i've lost 30lbs so far. I could probably do better if my food was accurately measured but i can't afford a food scale at this moment.

If I am at home, I use measuring cups, spoons and an old food scale. If I am out at someone's house, I'll use the palm of my hand as a guide to my portion of meat. I will also use a smaller plate and divide it in half. On one half of the plate I will put all vegetables or fruit and vegetables. I then divide the other half of the plate in half again and put my meat on one of the halves and my starch on the other half. If I got out to a restaurant, I take half of the meal and have it wrapped up before I start eating.

I half everything now. If eating at home, I only put half of what I normally would on my plate and if I am eating out, I cut things in half or divide them in half and take what is left over home for lunch or my daughter to eat if she is not with me.

Since I tend to eat with my eyes, I use smaller plates so that the small portion of food looks enormous.

Measuring cups and spoons are great for a lot of things but I really am just guessing on portion sizes on things like meats and cheeses. I need that scale!

I use measuring cups and spoons. A scale could increase my accuracy and help me get closer to my goal. :-)

I have been using measuring cups and snack size plates and bowls for years now.

When I eat meats, I pound them very thin to make them appear larger before I weight them on the scale.

Measuring cups I've got my kids doing it too.

I use measuring cups and spoons, but a scale would be a huge help, since I usually have to guess at portions for cheese and meat. It's hard to picture a pair of dice or a deck of cards.

Ashamed to say I don't. However, I have began working toward a healthier lifestyle and this would be great to have.

My routine is to eat as many fruits & vegs as possible, then tiny little bits of everything else. Usually a great plan -- except around holidays!

I used to eyeball. Then realized how awful I was at eyeballing! So I moved on to pre-portioned packages. Which is great if all you want to eat is cheese, pretzels and other snacks. But for a dinner meal? I really have no idea...

I use small dessert plates instead of a dinner plate and have little bowls that I use for either cereal to snack on or sometimes a splurge of ice cream.

Measuring cups and spoons are my best friend. A scale could be my new best friend! LOL

I always serve myself on a salad plate. I also use the weight watchers cheat cheat for portion size (and illustration of a hand). I have been thinking about investing in a scale.

I have started at age 40 a lifestyle change. I'm learning more about portion control and it's not easy, it's a challenge. The guessing game is not working. I can definitely utilize this scale for my weight loss goals... Which is to lose 125lbs.

Pray for my lifestyle change... It's not easy but I don't want to give up.

I really don't have a good way to measure my portions. I use measuring cups and spoons but just eyeball when it comes to meats, cheeses, etc.

I am new to all of this and for now have just been using the palm of my hand which I heard is an average size serving...especially for meat. But WOW...this scale would be awesome! Thanks for all the great ideas!

I don't measure right now because the ounces, lbs etc are intimidating! Using a scale seems way less scary!

I use measuring cups for cereal and main dishes that list serving size in cups. I try to count out crackers and almonds. It would help a lot to have this scale when things are listed in ounces and pounds.

I use smaller dinner plates and fill half the plate with veggies. I would love to have a scale to really reign in my portions!

Right now I use some weight watchers technique for determining portion sizes. I would love to try this in the snack/100 cal portions for my family!

I am on the Lean for Life diet right now through Lindora clinic. I measure everything I eat. This scale would be very handy for my diet! I am so excited and have lost 11.3 # in 11 days.

I would love this! I started counting calories in Jan and have lost 8 lb so far. I've been using measuring cups and spoons.

Unfortunately, I use the eyeball method. I am sure that this scale would really help my weight loss efforts

I use a very small plate. This scale would be awesome!

I keep my old food scale out on the kitchen counter so that it looks at me and reminds me to weigh and measure everything. There are times when I have not measured out enough and I might cut myself short of some foods. The scales don't lie:) They keep me honest!

I, unfortunately, mostly eyeball it so a tool like this would really be helpful. I use smaller plates and bowls to control portion the best I can. I do read labels, too.

Rule of thumb: If it's bigger than your palm the portion is too big.

I am very busy throughout the week with working full time and being a full time student and mother, so on Sundays I enlist the help of my 6 year old. Its a way for us to spend time together talking about healthy foods and portion sizes. He (along with my help) measures out portions for the week. I plan ahead the best I can by pre-packing my meats after the grocery store and dividing everything up before I put it away. I put a piece of tape on the package or freezer bag with the date, type of meat and how many ounces is in the bag. This way I know already what exactly Im eating, and gives my son a little extra math practice!!!

I use a child size plate. It helps with smaller portions and the kids think it is super funny!!

I use measuring cups and spoons! Also we eat off smaller plates.

I actually use measuring cups!

some things I measure (if I can use a measuring cup or measuring spoons), other things I eyeball.

if it fits in my mouth...its going in.... :)

I use visualization....For example, if I am having meat, I to eat a piece that is about the size of a deck of cards. If I would like a piece of cheese, I get a piece the size of thumb. This is so frustrating and I don't really gets you correct amounts. I would love to have a scale that would tell me exactly how much I am having. I believe portion control is the way to make sure you can lose weight and then keep it off for good once you lose the weight. I think we don't have to exclude anything from our diets, if we would keep the portions under control. Having this scale would do just that!

I'm new to portion control and would LOVE the scale. At work, I use a POST-IT to control the size of my snacks. If it can fit on the post it without spilling over or piling up---its going in! Its very helpful when eating nuts, hard candies, and trail mixes. Thanks for the great tips guys!

3 weeks ago I started my journey towards a healthy lifestyle and weight loss goal and I've been going strong!

However, I realized very quickly that I definitely need a scale to help measure out portions. This would be extremely helpful!

I'm in my second year of college, and I portion control by only going up to the buffet in the dining hall twice, and I fill up with beans and veggies so I feel fuller for longer!

I don't measure at all right now other than try to eat more of the healthy part of the meal..ie veg. This would be nice to use to control the meat portion & a good reminder!

I try to measure things in measuring cups, but sometimes eating out of the bag wins out...

I measure the majority of my food. A food scale would be helpful.

I divide up snacka nd treats into mini snack bags but to be able toaccurately weight & measure them would be devine! thanks for the chance to win!

I control portion sizes by prepping food in advance & placing each day's meal sides in small ziploc storage containers. They're the perfect size, then all I have to do is open, add that evening's flavoring ingredients (such as peppers & onions to quinoa for a stir fry), and not only is my portion controlled, but also dinner is done in a jiffy!!

Measuring & weighing out food is truly the only way to go for effective weight loss! I am always amazed by what I think is a serving size and weigh it out and have to put some back! I have the old fashioned scale and would love a digital one!

I use measuring cups.

I weigh/measure most foods but my scale is a big clunky thing and this is so much sleeker. I could probably leave this one on the counter. Thanks for the giveaway.

I usually use measuring cups and spoons when convenient and eyeball portions the rest of the time. It would be wonderful to have a scale so that I can accurately measure portions because it would really help me on my healthy eating/weight loss journey. It would also be so cool to win this scale because February 9th is my birthday. Great present for me! How cool is that?! :)

I have a hard time measure my portions size

Portion control is so important ! me. lose 10lbs

I go on Snack-Girl very see what new

Oh my, portion control! With a house full of boys who eat me out of everything in sight, I have started preportioning snacks for us all. I use measuring cups and spoons for the most part, and place the single serving or half serving depending on nutritional information in a baggie. Ee also.eat off of divided plates with veggies taking the largest space. In addition when we eat off of regular plates, we use salad plates. These ideas help a lot. We are all seeing the rewards of not overeating. A scale would be awesome.

Admittedly, I fall down when it comes to portioning. But it helps me tremendously, overall, to keep a log of what I eat each day. I'm more apt to keep dinner small when I see that I had a huge lunch!

I use luncheon plates. It helps keep my portions in line...

I always guesstimate meat portions by comparing it to about the size of the palm of my hand. I learned in weight watchers that is comparable to 3 oz of meat.

My bedtime snack was getting WAY out of portion control (gotta love having Mom's homemade chex mix in the house!) So I use the 1/2 cup measuring cup to spoon out my snack and just enjoy every bite!

I measure everything! Then I use an app on my iPod to track how many calories are in all my ingredients as well. It really helps me keep track of my sugar and sat fat intake.

I use small ziplock bags for snacks on-the-go, but don't have an accurate method for controlling portion sizes. This scale would be a great addition to my kitchen!

I use measuring cups and spoons. I have a dinner plate that I marked for my allowed portion sizes. It is about the size of a salad plate. It helps to know that even though I have measured my food, I am not permited to put ANY food across the allotted spot on that "special plate".

I nned all the help that I can get!

Since my fist is the size of a cup measure I eyeball it using that as a reference point. A scale would be amazing for baking!!!

I use measuring cups and spoons!

I take baked chips out of the box and count them into snack bags that I write my WW points on. Grab and go!

I use a food scale daily. I've gone thru 2 already:-)

Oh I would love to win this because I am the WORST at guesstimating. I think it would be fun for my kids too - I've been trying to teach them about portions and they just get this glazed look in their eyes. It would be a family WIN if we won this scale! :)

I measure, measure, cups, spoons, etc., and have an old scale. A new one would be fabulous!

I've always used the portion control guidelines that WW taught me waaaaaay back the first time I did WW. It uses your hand as a guideline for different portions. For instance, the palm of your hand without the fingers is a 3oz serving of meat. The tip of your thumb is a tablespoon and the tip of your index finger is a teaspoon (although it looks like I may have been underestimating this since I just checked online and every site I found has a thumbtip as a tsp - oh well). A closed fist is the size apple you should choose. (It goes on.) I also tend to use a salad size plate for meals to reduce the amount of food I will put on my plate.

Measuring cups & spoons are a girl's best friend! I'd eyeball the portion & then actually measure it to see how far I was off - no wonder the scale wasn't moving!

After several years on WW, my husband brings a one cup measuring cup to the table every time I serve pasta.

I've begun putting out salad plates when we set the dinner table, and aiming to fill it once and call it quits when the plate is empty.

I okay the guesstimate game...not good, I know! I am just entering this "portion party"! With a husband that can eat ANYTHING and EVERYTHING, WHENEVER he wants I feel overwhelmed just trying to cook and eat healthy for me let alone cook his meat n spuds,oh and bread!!! This scale would be a life-saver for me :)

I use measuring cups and I also sometimes use a postal scale (that I bought for etsy packages!) - having an actual food scale would help me stick to Weight Watchers maintenance! :)

What a great idea--I just use measuring cups or the dreaded eyeball!

I always use measuring cups and spoons, but sometimes just use my hand to eye things.

As many have mentioned, the key to my portion control success is measuring cups! I love to cook, but I'm not very good at decreasing the size of recipes unless it's something I've made before. Thus, I also use small containers to divide up my meals for future lunches and dinners. I also use my salad plates 95% of the time instead of the regular dinner plates.

I need this kind of help. I always think I am only having a little of this or that but I am pretty sure I get it wrong.

I would totally use this for frozen yogurt. I KNOW I must eat more than a half cup. And same with measuring dry ingredients...

The measuring cups are always out. A scale would sure help on the non liquid, non prepackaged stuff!

Currently, I use my measuring cups as a means to

watch my food portion control...

Many thanks, Cindi

I weight and measure my food! Helps me keep things in control. Sadly my old scale broke! I love the looks of this one!

I portion my food by using one of my kitchen utensils. I have one particular big spoon that measures 2oz so I use that. Thus getting a scale and not having to use my big spoon would be great.

"Tweet!"

https://twitter.com/#!/cmh512/status/165099145911205888...

Again, many thanks!

Cindi

I will pre-portion snacks for lunch but I don't ever weigh anything, but would love to start doing so to really see how much I should be eating. This would be a great addition to my kitchen. Love your site. Thank you!

I bought a five dollar scale from Wal-mart and I use my measuring cups and spoons to help keep track of my portions. I have a feeling it may not work as good but its a start, thank u.

I've only just started measuring my food with a $5 scale from walmart. It's not the best as I have to use a small plate and measure one thing at a time but it's really important to stay within your portions!

I try to control portion size by using my hand as a measuring guide. Open hand for veggies, palm for protein, and fist for carbs!

I know this is probably not a good rule of thumb but I use the size of my palm for things high in calories. For veggies I go a little bigger :)

Honestly, right now we don't. I have a 1 year old and 3 year old and we have been discussing recently how to incorporate this into our daily routine with the little ones!

Salad size plates instead of dinner plates; mostly I eyeball foods now: when I was just starting to pay attention to portions, I used measuring spoons and cups and always use the same cereal bowl so I "know" what a cup looks like! A scale would be more acurate... I'm sure!

I have an old scale that I use, but it sure has taken a beating. A digital one would sure be helpful!

I use measuring cups and an oz scale

I will portion out snacks in baggies or small containers so that I am not tempted to over eat unconsciously.

I am trying to measure my foods that can be done so by using measuring cups and spoons. As far as the other items, like meats and cheese, I try to do the size portions WW has mentioned; meats as the size of a deck of cards; using your thumbs and fingers, etc. So, winning the scales would be a huge plus in this long road I have ahead of me. Thanks for the information.

I need help in this area, please pick me!

What an awesome giveaway! I like to control portion sizes by understanding how many servings are in a recipe, and then dividing the recipe into that amount prior to serving. Thanks for the chance to win! :)

I have to relearn portion control!!! That's why I need this scale!!!

I use measuring cups and spoons all the time at home. I also track what I'm eating on myfitnesspal. It really helps!

I picture how big my stomach is.

I have to measure! When I eyeball portions I am usually too generous. How can that tiny amount be 1 ounce of nuts and surely 1/2 cup of low-fat cottage chesse is bigger than that! See what I mean....sigh.

I tend to use smaller plates (diameter-wise)for meals. This helps me keep my portions small, but my plate full. :)

I cook chicken, pork, etc., divide it into 3 ounce portions, put in zip-lock snack bags, then into larger freezer bag. I cook brown rice, use the old Tupperware hamburger maker to form into 1/2 cup portions, freeze on a tray, then pop into a freezer bag (looks kinda' like rice cakes). Not only good portion control, but saves time when preparing a tasty WW meal by having most of the cooking already done. A good scale is a must for accurate portion control!

As a college student I have to guesstimate. I know the portion sizes in the cafeteria are much to big and having a scale like this would help me make better choices!

I use measuring cups when I'm cooking at home, or I measure meals to the size of my fist (about one cup) and palm of my hand,(about 3-4 oz of lean protein) when I'm dining out!

right now I eyeball but I try and prepackage things so Im at least not eating out of the box

Please add my name for the scale give away

I use measuring cups/spoons to portion for one or two, but when cooking for the whole family it gets tricky - this would be a great help!

I WANT ONE!!!!

When will we know who won it?

I use measuring cups and spoons which isn't the best way:)

We measure with measuring cups -- and actually my husband measures flour, sugar, etc., with the scale! It's always hard to find a scale that is 'just right' for smaller applications -- this looks like a great one!

It would be so nice to not have to wash my measuring cups a million times a day! That's what I'm currently using!

At home, we control portion sizes by using reusable snack bags. Not the most accurate, I'm sure, but it's green and thankfully not costly in the long run.

I use measuring spoons and cups. And I try to use the palm of my hands sometimes. Would love to win this. Just came home from the hospital and this would make it a lot easier for me.Thank you Snack Girl for offering these goodies.

I pre-portion my snacks and lunch foods for the day. I have gotten used to what is a single serving and now it is automatic. I'm happy to have leftovers when dining out!

I use my hand! WW taught me this trick that works great at a restaurant. The palm of my hand is 3 oz of meat. A small handful of something loose (like nuts) is 1-2 ounces. Thumb = 1 tablespoon. Tip of index finger = 1 teaspoon. Fist = 1 cup. I also have measuring cups that I use when preparing recipes at home.

we use measuring cups and spoons, of which I need to get more of because I'm tired of washing them all the time. I like the idea of getting them from the dollar store! As for weighing foods, my mom picked me up a really old kitchen scale from a thrift store but I'm scared to use it.

One tip I have been using I got at a Weight Watchers meeting; my old 6oz yogurt container I put in my cereal box and scoop out 1 serving of cereal, pasta etc. I would love a scale to weigh meats because I mostly eyeball them.

i measure my food whenever i need to take control of portion sizes. definitely the best way to go :)

follow you on twitter and tweeted!

I sure need a scale. I just guess and try to think of the deck of cards for meat, the dice for cheese, the tennis ball for servings. :)

I just eyeball it, but my husband's "eyeballs" are much bigger than mine LOL

I pre-portion my snacks, yogurt, and cottage cheese. If I take the whole container I will automatically eat more! I also use salad plates and I try to avoid second helpings.

im in south africa... it won't even help...

I use smaller plates and make sure that over half of the plate contains healthy items!

I eyeball portion sizes, or eat prepackaged food. The fact that my weight loss has stalled is a pretty good indicator that neither is working.

I use measuring cups and an actual deck of cards!

I embedded a link in my signature that goes to a 20 minute narrated PowerPoint I created on serving sizes. If you are looking for a cheat sheet, view this PDF that has hand symbols that approximates serving sizes: www.dairycouncilofca.org/PDFs/handsymbols.pdf. It can fit in your wallet until you've committed the portion sizes to memory. For example, a salad that is about the size of two fists is one serving of vegetables.

I control my portions using the standard measuring cups and spoons. So old-fashioned, huh??? It is so time-consuming!!!!

I try not to get too crazed about measuring things precisely but am known to whip out measuring cups from time to time. I would LOVE a kitchen scale for baking purposes though-and cheese. That stuff is hard to eyeball.

As of right now, I do not limit my portion size... should probably start doing that though! Here is to 2012 and portion sizing:)

Measuring cups, I had to buy more b/c I use them so often and 1/2 are usually in the dishwasher!

I use the palm method-if it's bigger than the palm of my hand, it's too large of a portion! With this method, I don't have to worry about leaving anything at home/work that I need to figure my portion size!!

I use measuring cups to precisely measure out everything I eat. But for some foods (e.g. Cheese) its hard to measure when a serving size is 2 oz. I would love that scale to help me out but as a "poor college student" I can't buy one.

I think measuring is important, but visualizing healthy portions when you don't have your measuring devices is too. One example is glasses-- they come in all shapes and sizes and some they sell anymore are gigantic! I've tried to work at better understanding, at least at home, which glasses are what size so I can know even without the measuring cups what I'm having!

I count and measure my servings, to make sure I am only eating the correct size. I keep spare small bowls at work to portion the correct amounts into. At home we use luncheon plates rather than dinner plates.

I'm a Weight Watcher from way back and to this day I still use measuring cups to control portions. The scale, however, looks awesome!

To portion out my food, I use smaller plates. It makes my meals look larger. I also fill up on vegetables, use measuring cups, and use measuring spoons. I always wanted a food scale but never actually bought one. I hope I get this scale! it would be very beneficial for me :) Thanks a whole lot~

I put a divided up portion into baggies so I'm not able to eat more than that amount.

I use smaller plates to portion control. But need help when preparing snacks for the day... or late at night.

How I Control Portion Size:

I use measuring cups and measuring spoons as I take food from pots for my dinner and to measure leftovers from cooked dinners to take my lunch each day. This enables me to enjoy tasty foods but make sure that I don't underestimate the number of calories that I am consuming and to keep my portions balanced each day of protein, carbohydrates and sugar. I often use a small postage scale for oz. but the scale is not very exact. This scale would make it more exact and I wouldn't have to guess at the weight of the container that I'm using to balance the food on the scale.

After getting into an argument with another patron at a local bar, the person challenges you to a fight out back. Because you've never been in a fight before (and don't want this to be your first time), you come up with a more creative way to settle your dispute.

I would love to have an updated scale. Currently using an old WW model that had different plastic cards to slide in depending on what you are weighing. Am trying to teach my 18 and 14 yr. old sons to eat reasonably. This whole obesity thing is out of control and we all need to help each other as much as possible.

I always eat half of what I think the correct portion would be... #IsooooooooNEEDthisscale...

I use measuring cups. I have two sets so I don't run out of the size I need.

I use measuring cups and spoons!

happy_haylee_3(at)hotmail(dot)com

I use smaller plates so it looks like it's more filling!

The way that works for me the best, is when I buy snacks that are easy for me to grab and eat out of the box, I put them in ziploc bags right away ! It helps me just take a bag at a time, and count the PPV for them.

I spent 2 weeks measuring everything several years ago. That gave me the knowledge to look at my food and know approximately how much I'm eating.

I weigh my foods when I'm uncertain.

I try my best to measure all my foods and make sure to double check serving sizes. Some of those serving sizes can be way off from what I thought! Would love to try the kitchen scale

I use measuring cups and spoons with most things. A scale would be helpful in portioning pizza dough and such. Thank you for the opportunity of receiving an Eatsmart digital scale!

I imagine a pack of playing cards for the amount of meati eat. I usually try to fill the rest of the plate with veggies. If I have a starch like brown rice, I dip out a portion about half the size of my fist.

Mine is on its last leg so this would be great to keep my portions in check.

Right now I use measuring cups for peanut butter, ice cream and cereal, but this scale would be nice to weight fruit!

I've begun using smaller plates and bowls; it's been an eye-opener. Would love to have a scale.

I keep my portions in check by serving myself on small salad plates instead of large dinner plates. This is a great trick for restaurants too. Serve yourself on the salad plate instead of eating off of the platter-sized dinner plates!

I measure and weigh what I eat whenever I can. It takes me only a few seconds because I'm used to it, and because my measuring tools are either out or within easy reach.

When I can't measure, I can guess somewhat accurately because I know what a portion looks like.

:o)

I would like to win this scale :)

I control my portion size by using measuring cups. In the mornings, I measure my cereal to make sure it is a half or full cup. Eyeballing cereal is too difficult for me!

I always portion out food at the beginning of the week using baggies and Tupperware. That way when I'm ready for a snack is already portioned put for me. Helps me avoid picking while preparing my snack!

Portion control is my best friend. Or...well...could be ? ;) ;)

I've always wanted/needed a food scale. Nice to see an affordable one. I package snacks in the little Gladware containers - tiny ones for nuts, one cup size for fruits and veggies, and 2 cup with screw on lid for soups.

I measure measure measure except with cereal. We always leave the restaurants with a kiddie cup. At home, we wash them (the kiddo uses them) and I eat cereal out of them. Otherwise I eat waaaay more than a serving.

We control portion size by putting snacks in baggies. Works for us! Thanks, Jen

I try my best to measure out portions and I attempt to eat everything in moderation. I've been wanting a kitchen scale for a while though :)

I use small ramekins for side dishes. Since I can't put much in the bowls, I don't need to measure these items.

I use a food scale and measuring cups to control my portion size. WW taught me that my eyes are not good measuring tools!

I use a small plate and make sure half of it is full of vegetables.

I control portions by measuring each serving!

I would love to win this scale! Thanks for the opportunity...and the great info! Love you, Snack Girl!

I always use portioned out reusable containers or when I'm filling a plate I use good old measuring cups!

At this point I eyeball most things, but need to get back to measuring...

Just starting to watch what I eat so this scale would be great! Right now I'm just looking at the calorie content on the label and using self control...which doesn't work all the well sometimes!

Oh oh oh...I need this! I had an inexpensive scale that was working great. Then I had to change the batteries...and I couldn't get it to work again. :-( I need this so I can measure my portions and reach my competition level weight!

I have always wanted a food scale. Right now I use measuring cups/spoons or else I guess which isn't accurate at all.

I weigh everything now because a gram is a gram and it's hard to ignore when you're measuring more than you should. If you do ignore the extra, you're only cheating yourself. With measuring cups/spoons you can heap enough to make a big difference and forget about guessing. It's too inaccurate. I can guess well at first, but the portions get bigger as time goes by. My scale is getting a smidgen old so a new would be awesome! Besides, there's nothing better than a new kitchen toy =)

Thanks for the opportunity to win a new one!

I've been wanting a scale for a while now...mostly for deli meats like turkey, they're always sliced differently so I never have any idea how many calories I'm eating on my sandwich!!

Following you on Facebook

I keep portion control under control, by using a smaller plate, eating slowly, drinking water before I eat, and watching the size of foods like 4 oz of meat is a deck of cards, a piece of cheese is the size of a dice. I also use my measuring cups and spoons.

Following you on Twitter

I eyeball mostly; I try to take about half the amount of what I really want to eat.

I have no portion control. I have recently given birth and have given up on healthy eating habits. I know it's time for a lifestyle change so I can pass on good habits and values to my children. I would like to start feeling better in mind, body and spirit.

This looks like a much easier way to keep portions under control. I'm working hard right now to "scale" back... ha ha, pun intended!

I've learned what the correct portion sizes look like, and try to stick to them and count calories!

I tweeted the post via @serene_streams

I've recently started measuring anything I can with measuring cups - with some stuff like yogurt, it's great because I end up feeling like a cup is a huge amount of yogurt. With cereal, seeing what a real serving is has been kind of depressing. :)

Portion control what a concept. Sadly, I am not very good at it. I use a measuring cup when I can, and I eyeball the rest.

I Follow Snack-Girl on FaceBook.

I follow you via twitter. @victoriachoman

https://twitter.com/#!/victoriachoman/status/16545020039410…

I always use my smaller plates when I'm cooking for myself at home. It's not precise whatsoever, but it seems to really help! I WOULD LOVE A SCALE!

Use a small dessert plate in place of a dinner plate.

wow this is awesome! right now i use measuring cups but they can be such a hassle

I control my portions by using a smaller than average plate & a measuring cup this scale would come in handy especially when it comes to being able to track exactly what I ate (chicken, etc.) instead of trying to guess-timate!

I'm in denial. I guess-timate, I eyeball, I figure that however much it takes for me to feel satisfied is a "portion." Help! Mama needs a scale. Bad.

I count out a serving sized portions and put them in Ziploc baggies, so my snacks are ready to go.

I usually guesstimate the proper portion sizes. A lot of the time it's one piece of fresh fruit for a serving. Otherwise, I use small snack containers for a measuring tool. A scale would definitely help and probably surprise me on how much (or how little) I'm actually eating!

i mostly go by eyeball

A scale would be so helpful! I am always trying to "guesstimate" the ounces of meat, etc.

Definitely measuring cups! They are easy to use and wash for the next meal!

I need, need , need this scale. I have been using the tools I have (measuring cups and such) buthaving a scale would be awesome, Thanks you!

I use my fist the palm of my hand and the tip of my thumb method. I always read the labels on my food. I also like the snack size ziplock bags too.

This scale would make it much easier to calculate my calories. Right now I am just winging it.

Currently, I tend to just eyeball everything, which is not the best way to do it. I could definitely use this scale!

It's hard to control portion size but thankfully at my school there is an interactive calorie counting system that is based upon their meals.

Measuring my portions with a scale is the only way to go! Keeps me on track with 'snacks' and regular meals!

I control portion sizes by weighing my food, but I have an old-school scale, and I suspect it is not nearly as accurate as this snazzy digital one.

I would LOVE to win the EatSmart Precision Pro--thank you for the opportunity to win!

I eyeball my portion size, but I am sure I'm using too much. I hate to get measuring cups and spoons dirty and to have to wash them, so I just look at what the package says is 1 portion and I try to use that amount.

I eat off of small plates and I eat often. I eat small meals (or large snacks) every 3 hours or so.

I don't portion control at this point. I try to eye ball things but it is rather sketchy. I really need to start controlling my portions better. My commitment this year is to get my diabetes unders semi control. This scale I believe would really help me to gain that goal.

I used my food scale for years until it just recently broke! Now I am doing research for a replacement.

I measure and read labels!!!

As a diabetic, I am no stranger to weighing and measuring my food. However, I have gotten out of the habbit. Also, I have old school analog scales. I guess I really ought to get myself a digital scale and get back on the bandwagon!

I measure using measuring cups, but a scale would be much better!

I just eat slowly and when I'm done I put away whatever's left for lunch the next day.

I need a shock collar to stay away from my fridge. Give me the scale!! Please :)

I was just thinking of acquiring a food scale! And only one day left to enter the contest! I got in just in time!

LOVE this. Such useful information.

I don't really "proportion" like I should though I have used food scales before thanks

Using a lunch or sandwich plate rather than a dinner plate.

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