How to Measure Food Using Your Hands

Control your portions even when you don’t have measuring cups or spoons. Judge the size of your serving by using your hand.

• ½ cup = cupped hand

Measure grains, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, beans, cooked vegetables

• 1 cup = 2 cupped hands

Measure grains, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, beans, cooked vegetables

• 3 ounces = open palm of hand

The perfect serving of beef, poultry, pork or fish

• 1 teaspoon = fingertip

Butter, mustard, mayonnaise, sauces

• 1-2 Tablespoons = thumb

Salad dressing, peanut butter, hard cheese

• 1 cup = clinched fist

Cereal, fresh fruits, salads, casseroles