(HealthDay News) -- Mindless eating can cause the calories to add up quickly, and before you know it your pants are more snug than usual.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this advice to consider before you start eating:

• Ask yourself whether you truly are hungry or if you are eating to fulfill another need, such as stress or boredom?
• Don't look at some foods as off limits. Instead look at what you eat as part of a healthy diet that includes balance and moderation.
• Discuss with your doctor a healthy eating plan and the issues of food and weight loss.
• Use a food and activity journal to monitor your eating habits -- including what you eat and when.