Estimating Portion Sizes With Your Hand

It is not always practical, or even possible, to measure or weigh everything we eat.  And most times, it isn't even necessary.  When you want to estimate a measurement or a weight, it is easy to do with your own hand.

For instance:

The palm of your hand, without the fingers, and the full thickness, is approximately 3 ounces.

This could be used for chicken breasts, steaks or chops, and fish steaks and fillets.

Your closed fist is approximately 1 cup.

This can be used for things such as pasta, popcorn, cereals, and ice cream.

Your index finger, from first joint to tip, is approximately 1 tsp.

This is a good measure for sugar, butter, or peanut butter.

Your thumb, from first joint to tip, is approximately the same volume as 1 tablespoon.

This can be used for jams, jellies,  nut butters, nuts, and seeds.

The full thumb, from base to tip, is approximately 1 ounce.

This is a good visual measure for cheeses, meats and chocolate.