“You can use everyday objects to visually estimate portion sizes,” Zelman says, and prevent yourself from overheating. For examples:


1/2 cup of vegetables = a light bulb;
1 cup pasta = a tennis ball;
3 oz. of meat = a deck of cards;
1 teaspoon of butter or margarine = the tip of your thumb;
1 ounceof cheese = 2 dice;
2 tablespoon of peanut butter = a ping-pong ball.