Dr Gemma Sampson · 67. Should you weigh your food? ASK A SPORTS DIETITIAN

In this episode, host Gemma addresses a listener's question about the practice of weighing food portions, especially when dining out. The discussion covers topics such as the benefits of weighing food for understanding portion sizes, nutrient intake, and managing stress around eating.

Gemma also highlights the potential downsides, like increased anxiety and disordered eating patterns. She provides practical tips and examples about how weighing your food can offer freedom and clarity for some, while acknowledging it's not suited for everyone. Tune in to learn how to tailor food tracking to your individual needs and goals.

Gary asks:

Hi. Episode 61. Nick was talking about weighing food. I’ve never considered doing this. How would this work if you went out to eat a few times a week? What literature do you recommend to learn how to do this? Thank you. I’m really enjoying the podcast!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Soundcloud or watch on Youtube.

Welcome to the Monthly "Ask a Sports Dietitian' episode

Each month on the Fuelled Podcast I select a listeners ‘Ask a Sports Dietitian’ question to answer in depth - just like I do each week on my private podcast for Fuelled Team members.

In this episode, Dr Gemma Sampson answers a listener's question about weighing food. She explains that weighing food can be helpful for understanding portion sizes, learning what's in food, and preventing overwhelm or fears around eating.

However, she emphasises that weighing food should be seen as a tool, not a rule, as it can also create stress and anxiety for some people. Gemma discusses the importance of visualising portion sizes and understanding the differences between cooked and raw measurements. She also highlights the need to adapt portion sizes based on individual goals, training load, and energy needs.

Takeaways

Weighing food can be helpful for understanding portion sizes and what's in food.
It can prevent overwhelm and fears around eating too much or too little.
However, weighing food should be seen as a tool, not a rule, as it can create stress and anxiety for some people.
Visualizing portion sizes and understanding the differences between cooked and raw measurements is important.
Portion sizes should be adapted based on individual goals, training load, and energy needs.

Sound Bites

"Use tracking and weighing food as a tool, not a rule."
"Weighing food can give you that understanding and freedom."
"Weighing food creates stress and anxiety for some people."