Countertop Clutter Contributes to Weight

Right now, wherever you are, stop and think about your kitchen. Can you picture what is sitting on your counter -- cereal boxes, loaves of bread, a bowl of fruit, a cookie jar, yesterday’s mail? A new study finds the food on your kitchen counter can relate to your weight.

In a recent study by Cornell University, researchers were able to predict a woman’s weight based on the types of foods sitting on her kitchen counter. The research team photographed over 200 kitchens in and compared them to their resident’s weight. Women who had a bowl of fruit on their kitchen counter weighed 13 pounds less than those who did not. Those who had cereal on their counter weighed 20 pounds more than those who did not and women who had soda on their countertops weighed 24 to 26 pounds more than those who did not. Past research has also shown that having clear counters, as opposed to cluttered countertops, can contribute to healthier weights.

Bottom line: We eat what we see because it is easy and convenient. A handful of food here and there may seem harmless, but calories add up fast! Try making healthier options convenient by simply putting them in plain sight. Swap your cereal boxes for a bowl of fruit or cut up veggies. Make sure to keep the treats and sweets out of sight, tucked away for special occasions. Out of sight, out of mind! 

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