Does reducing the size of your entrée lead you to eat a bigger dessert?

Have you ever wondered if reducing the size of your entrée will lead you to eat a bigger dessert? Well, researchers put this question to the test.

In this recent study, Cornell University researchers asked around 75 people to eat as much macaroni and cheese (the entrée) and ice cream (the dessert) as they wanted. On several additional occasions, the researchers shrunk the mac and cheese portion sizes—ultimately down to 75% of its original size.

On the first day, the mac and cheese portion consumed was 360 calories and when the portion was reduced to 75% of its original size, it was only 250 calories. Interestingly, on each of the days when the entrée portion was reduced, the subjects ate the same amount (around 95 calories worth) of ice cream. Even though the subjects reported feeling hungrier when their portion was reduced, they still ate the same portion size of dessert.

The authors concluded “Reduction in the portion size of an entrée by up to 25% did not increase the amount of dessert consumed, despite an increase in perceived hunger at lower portion sizes.”

I found these results promising for those trying to cut calories and lose weight while still wanting to enjoy an occasional indulgence. I recall that when a popular chain restaurant offered smaller entrée portions at a reduced price, diners ended up spending more money on their meal because they felt virtuous with the smaller entrée portion and ordered dessert. So I am was glad to see these results.

Portion control takeaway message: Yes, you can have desert on occasion but try eating a smaller entrée portion to make room for your favorite treat.

 

 

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