What Is Healthy Take Out Food?

Everyone is looking for ways to stay healthy and eat well, even when eating out. Knowing what to order from the menu can be a challenge. Eating take out food doesn't have to be unhealthy. With the right choices, you can still enjoy your favorite take out food while eating healthy.

Keep It Simple

When it comes to healthy take out food, it's best to keep it simple. Stick to lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish, and whole grains like brown rice. Avoid fried or breaded items or anything that is smothered in cheese, sauce or gravy. Look for dishes that are steamed, broiled or baked. Don't be fooled by the term “light” or “low-fat.” It may not necessarily be the healthiest option. Ask for dressings and sauces on the side so you can control how much you are eating.

Eat Your Veggies

Load up on vegetables. Many restaurants offer side salads, steamed vegetables and vegetable-based soups. Add vegetables to your sandwich or wrap. Vegetables are low in calories and full of fiber, vitamins and minerals. Eating plenty of vegetables can help you stay fuller longer and is an important part of a healthy diet.

Watch Out For Portions

When eating take out food, it is easy to go overboard with portion size. Most restaurant meals contain 2-3 times the recommended portion size. When ordering, split an entrée with a friend or order an appetizer instead of a main course. If you are ordering a sandwich or wrap, ask for the half-size portion.

Balance Out Your Meal

Balance out your meal by adding a few healthy side dishes. Many restaurants offer healthy options such as whole grain bread, a side salad or steamed vegetables. Eating a balanced meal helps to ensure you are getting all of the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients your body needs.

Limit You Intake of Sodium

Eating too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. If you have a heart condition or are at risk for heart disease, you should limit you intake of sodium. Ask your server or check the menu for dishes that are lower in sodium. Choose dishes that are labeled as “low-sodium” or “no added salt.”

Enjoy Eating Out

Eating out doesn't have to be unhealthy. With the right choices, you can still enjoy your favorite take out food while eating healthy. Keeping it simple, eating your veggies, watching out for portion size, balancing out your meal and limiting your intake of sodium can help you make healthier choices when eating out.