Drink a glass of water before you eat. Many times we go into a meal feeling famished, and thirst is sometimes easily mistaken for hunger. Consuming eight ounces of water 30 minutes before you sit down to eat works wonders. The water fills you up and you won't be as hungry when your meal is served. In turn, you'll be less likely to overeat. Water eases cravings and controls hunger without costing you any calories. If you simply need something more substantial than water, then try a broth-based soup before you eat your main meal. A water-rich appetizer, like soup, can decrease the amount you eat during the main course. A salad that contains lots of veggies has the same effect, plus the filling fiber in the vegetables acts as a double whammy on appetite - just use dressings sparingly.