You’ve worked hard to lose those pounds and get in shape by sticking to a healthy diet. It’s time to dine out with friends and celebrate the new you. However, will all those goodies on the menu tempt you to stray from your regular healthy diet? The good news is that dining out at a restaurant doesn’t have to sabotage your healthy diet. It’s all about eating right. With smart-eating strategies like planning ahead, considering the menu, and choosing foods and beverages carefully to stay on your nutrition plan, you can enjoy eating out without having to worry about putting those pounds back on.
Think ahead when choosing a restaurant. For information about the menu and nutrition, check online. Most restaurants today have websites with that information. Consider meal options at different restaurants and compare. This way, you can choose a restaurant that offers the types of foods with the caloric intake that best meets your current eating plan. Often a restaurant with a wide range of menu items will offer you the most choices.
Knowing the cooking basics makes ordering easier when trying to eat healthy. Order foods that are grilled, baked, broiled, or steamed and avoid foods that are described as au gratin, rich, or fried. Buttered, battered, and breaded are definitely out. These words spell fat and high calories. As a beverage choice, choose unsweetened sodas, low-fat milk, or ask for water. Keep in mind that a glass of sweetened soda has over 100 calories and choose wisely.
Avoid the “all-you-can-eat” tempation. Portions are extremely important when dining out, and the first rule is to avoid all-you-can-eat and buffet restaurants. It’s just too tempting to overeat when you know the price tag won’t be affected. In addition, many restaurants today serve large portions. Consider sharing a meal with a friend or eating an appetizer or side dish instead of a main entrée. If you do order a large entrée, set some aside to take home when it’s delivered to your table. Another great strategy is to resign from the clean your plate club. Once you’re full, leave the rest. You can always take the leftovers home in a doggy bag.
When it comes to dessert… skip the New York cheesecake and double-chocolate fudge cake. Ordering a fruit instead will keep you in line with the goal of eating healthy when dining out. Better yet, skip dessert. Likely, you’re already full from the meal and don’t need it.
With smart choices, dining out can be a healthy culinary adventure. Just be sure to make them.
By Deborah V.
