Today, due to a sudden onslaught of severe hunger, I headed to a nearby restaurant for a satisfying lunch. I ordered something healthy -- chicken, veggies and rice -- and was amazed at the amount of food they brought out. It took serious muscle to lift that plate. It was literally overflowing with food. Despite being famished, I could only eat a third of what was on my plate, and I felt grossly full afterwards.

My point? Restaurant sizes are way too big these days. Avoid overeating by making smarter -- and smaller -- choices. Some suggestions? Order off the kids menu (if they'll let you), ask for a half portion, opt for an appetizer instead of an entree or go for a side salad with some sort of lean meat. You might think it won't be enough, but I bet you'll be surprised -- it doesn't take much to satisfy hunger without feeling too full.

And next time you head out for a meal with the girls? Choose a tapas place where you can choose from a selection of appetizer-sized meals.