New Delhi, Feb. 29 -- Factors like gender, age, and hunger impact how much we eat, but our minds also play tricks on us. Our plates are more than just containers; they're influenced by a mix of psychology and biology.

Visual cues, plate size, and optical illusions can make us think a plate is emptier than it is. Emotions, social pressure, and marketing further affect our food and portion choices.

Here are some handy ways to measure your portion sizes:

* Your hand: Your palm can be a rough guide for a serving.

* Measuring cups: Invest in a set of measuring cups for accurate portion control of grains, fruits, and vegetables.

* Food labels: Pay attention to serving sizes listed on food labels. They might not be your ideal portion, but ...