Bigger isn't always better --- especially when it comes to the serving sizes of food. Over time, a few extra helpings here and there can lead to more calories or fat than you bargained for --- and even a few extra pounds! Try these tips to keep serving sizes in check:

Train your eye to spot serving sizes.  Use measuring cups and spoons to serve a few meals at home.  Learn how much "looks right" and compare to how much that a serving really is.

Check it out. Check serving sizes and calorie information on food labels, especially on fat-free goodies like cookies, cakes and other treats.  The nutrition infomation is for the serving size listed. 

Pay attention to the Pyramid. The Food Guide Pyramid provides serving size guidelines for foods in each food group, as shown below.  The serving sizes in the pyramid are not strict levels on how much to eat at one meal. They are standards for counting servings in diet plans.