Eat less at buffets: study

Ithaca, NY – Using a small plate and scouting food choices may help prevent overeating at buffets, according to a new study from Cornell University.

A team of 30 trained observers identified strategies associated with consuming less food based on the eating habits of more than 300 people at 22 all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet restaurants in six states.

Observers noticed that heavy people made decisions on each food as they went through the line, but thin people were more likely to survey all options and then make their food choices. Thin people also were approximately 7 times more likely to choose a smaller plate, sat an average of 16 feet farther from the buffet and chewed their food longer.

The study was published in the April issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.