Some Basic Tips for Eating Healthy When Eating Out
- As a beverage choice, ask for water or order fat-free or low-fat milk, unsweetened tea, or other drinks without added sugars. You would be surprised how many calories you can mindlessly drink during the course of a meal.
- Ask for whole wheat bread for sandwiches. Fiber = more filling
- In a restaurant, start your meal with a salad packed with veggies, to help control hunger and feel satisfied sooner.
- Ask for salad dressing to be served on the side. Then use only as much as you want. One thing I liked to do was dip my fork in the dressing and then take a stab of salad. Dressing in every bit without things being soaked.
- Choose main dishes that include vegetables, such as stir fries, kebobs, or pasta with a tomato sauce.
- Order steamed, grilled or broiled dishes instead of those that are fried or sautéed.
- Choose a “small” or “medium” portion. This includes main dishes, side dishes, and beverages.
- Order foods without creamy sauces or gravy. Likewise, broth based (clear) soups are lower in fat then cream based soup.
- Order an item from the menu instead heading for the “all-you-can-eat” buffet. Feel free to share a main dish with a friend.
- When your food is delivered, set aside or pack half of it to go immediately. Out of sight, out of mind plus leftovers for tomorrow.
- Go for fruit more often instead of dessert. If you do get a dessert, make sure to share with friends.
For these tips and more go to: http://www.choosemyplate.gov/healthy-eating-tips/tips-for-eating-out.html