Tips for Eating Healthy when Eating out
United Sates Department of Agriculture, MyPyramid.gov
If you're trying to maintain your weight or eat healthier, the above are great strategies to stop having to fear eating out, as portions at restaurants tend to be bigger and contain more "hidden" cals, sugars, fat etc. However, I have to say, when I go out to eat, I think it's almost a waste to fear being able to eat anything b/c it might not be healthy or to obsessively try to follow the above suggestions each and every time. Enjoy eating out, just be aware of your choices. Going out once in a while and being able to enjoy a meal without worring about 'being healthy' in every aspect can be just as healthy as watching what you eat. Nevertheless, these are great tips if you do want to make healthier choices when eating out.
United Sates Department of Agriculture, MyPyramid.gov
- As a beverage choice, ask for water or order fat-free or low-fat milk, unsweetened tea, or other drinks without added sugars.
- Ask for whole wheat bread for sandwiches.
- 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
- 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 sauted.
- Choose a small or medium portion. This includes main dishes, side dishes, and beverages.
- Order an item from the menu instead heading for the all-you-can-eat buffet.
- If main portions at a restaurant are larger than you want, try one of these strategies to keep from overeating:
? ? * Order an appetizer or side dish instead of an entre.
? ?* Share a main dish with a friend.
? ?* If you can chill the extra food right away, take leftovers home in a doggy bag.
? ?* When your food is delivered, set aside or pack half of it to go immediately.
? ?* Resign from the clean your plate club, when you have eaten enough, leave the rest.
- To keep your meal moderate in calories, fat, and sugars:
? ?* Ask for salad dressing to be served on the side so you can add only as much as you want.
? ?* Order foods that do not have creamy sauces or gravies
? ?* Add little or no butter to your food.
? ?* Choose fruits for dessert most often.
- On long commutes or shopping trips, pack some fresh fruit, cut-up vegetables, low-fat string cheese sticks, or a handful of unsalted nuts to help you avoid stopping for sweet or fatty snacks.
If you're trying to maintain your weight or eat healthier, the above are great strategies to stop having to fear eating out, as portions at restaurants tend to be bigger and contain more "hidden" cals, sugars, fat etc. However, I have to say, when I go out to eat, I think it's almost a waste to fear being able to eat anything b/c it might not be healthy or to obsessively try to follow the above suggestions each and every time. Enjoy eating out, just be aware of your choices. Going out once in a while and being able to enjoy a meal without worring about 'being healthy' in every aspect can be just as healthy as watching what you eat. Nevertheless, these are great tips if you do want to make healthier choices when eating out.
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