Healthy Meals Out To Eat

Choose Wisely

Trying to eat healthy when dining out can be a challenge. With so many delicious and tempting options, it is hard to make the right choices when eating out. Many restaurant meals contain large amounts of calories, fat, and sodium. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few simple tips, you can make healthier choices while enjoying all the flavors of restaurant food.

Look Out For Calories

The number of calories in restaurant meals can vary greatly, so it is important to pay attention to the menu. Many restaurants have included nutritional information on their menus to help you make healthier choices. Before you order, take a look at the numbers and pick the meal with the lowest number of calories. If the restaurant does not provide nutrition information, be mindful of how the meal is prepared. Fried foods and creamy sauces will usually contain more calories than grilled or steamed dishes.

Focus on Fruits and Vegetables

When possible, choose meals that include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. These foods are naturally low in calories and fat and provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Adding some color to your plate can also help you make sure you are getting a variety of nutrients. Choose a meal that includes a side salad or a colorful vegetable side dish. This will help you feel more satisfied while eating fewer calories.

Be Mindful of Portions

Restaurant meals are often much larger than a normal portion size. When dining out, try sharing an entrée with a friend or asking for a to-go box when the meal arrives. This way you can enjoy the taste of a full-size entrée while eating only half the calories. You can also order an appetizer instead of an entrée. Appetizers usually contain fewer calories than entrées and can be just as tasty.

Choose Healthier Sides

When ordering a meal, pay attention to the side dishes. Instead of french fries, order a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a baked potato. These sides are usually lower in calories and fat. Look for foods that are steamed, grilled, or baked as opposed to fried. This can make an already healthy meal even healthier.

Watch Out for Sauces and Dressings

It is easy to forget about the sauces and dressings that accompany a meal. Many sauces, such as gravy and creamy dressings, can contain lots of fat and calories. When ordering, ask the waiter to leave off the sauces or dressings, or ask for them on the side. This will allow you to control how much sauce is added to your meal.

Eating healthy at restaurants is possible. With a few simple tips, you can make healthier choices while enjoying all the flavors of restaurant food. Look out for calories, focus on fruits and vegetables, watch for portion sizes, and be mindful of sauces and dressings. By following these tips, you can enjoy great-tasting meals while still eating healthy.