There are a lot of people out there who don’t have time to make meals at home and end up eating out more than they should. If you are one of these people that eat out a lot of the time, there are some things you can do to make it a little healthier.
You can think about and plan where you will eat ahead of time. You can consider the meal options that are available and choose on the healthier side. If you didn’t plan the place ahead of time, then take the time to look over the menu before you make a selection. Some restaurants have a menu section for “healthier” choices.
While you’re reading the menu, you can look for clues to fat and calorie content. Menu terms that can mean less fat and calories: baked, braised, broiled, grilled, poached, roasted, steamed. Menu terms that can mean more fat and calories: batter-fried, pan-fried, buttered, creamed, crispy, breaded. Choose these foods only occasionally and in small portions.
When you’re at a restaurant, it’s OK to make special requests as long as you keep them simple. You can ask for a baked potato or side salad in place of French fries, ask for sauces to be served on the side. These are reasonable requests that can make your meal heathier.
You can boost the nutrition in all types of sandwiches by adding tomato, lettuce, peppers or other vegetables.
Being really hungry while you’re waiting can lead you to eating bread or chips before your meal arrives. Hold the bread or chips until your meal is served.
If you’re planning on drinking alcohol with your meal, Limit the amount, no more than one drink for women and two for men. Alcohol tends to increase your appetite and provides calories without any nutrients.
If you want to have a desert, try sharing it with others at your table.
Eating out is not always the healthiest thing to do but you can some things to help make it better for you.
