Switch off the TV and radio at meal times to lose weight, dieters are being advised.

Research found dieters who practised mindful eating - chewing without distractions - were much better at shifting unwanted pounds.

The study found those given mindfulness training - encouraging them to chew slowly, concentrate on the food, and avoid all distractions such as the television - lost six times as much weight as other slimmers.

On average they shed four pounds in 15 weeks, compared to just 0.6 lbs among others on the trial trying to lose weight.

A key part of mindful eating is concentrating on the food on your plate, chewing for longer and enjoying meals at a slower pace.

Followers are also encouraged to eat without any disruptions, such as conversation or watching television.

Experts say that being relaxed at meal times means people are more likely to seek out healthier foods, instead of sweet of fatty “comfort foods”.

And they say that concentrating on the food, and savouring meals, means people are more likely to recognise when they are full, instead of over eating.