Kick that mindless eating habit

Have you ever sat down to watch a movie with a big bag of chips (or some other snack), then a couple of hours later been completely horrified when you found your hand groping around in a greasy, empty chip bag? It's not a good feeling. Call it the munchies, nervous snacking, or mindless eating - but it's a habit that can lead to obesity.

Doctor's at Cornell University's medical school have come up with a list of suggestions to help you curb a mindless eating habit. Did you know that you can fool your mind into eating smaller portion sizes by choosing smaller eating utensils?

Also, try not to eat while you're watching TV or doing some other activity. And if you're going to give into temptation and eat a food you've been avoiding, eat just a small amount. For instance if you've given up on peanut M&M's and simply must have some, you don't need to buy the "pounder" bag. Another tip: when you feel the need to munch, choose foods that are low in calories but high in water and fiber to make you feel full faster.

Check out the full list of eight tips for even more suggestions, and save yourself the horror of realizing you've just botched your diet by mindlessly consuming a 1500 calorie bag of chips.