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Even the most sincere plans for eating healthfully can't help us if we don't follow them. Today, the average American eats away from home at least four times a week. Eating in restaurants is now a well-established part of our busy lives. So the question is, can we eat out and still eat well? The answer, fortunately, is yes. I just takes a little forethought and planning. Here are some helpful tips.
Patronize restaurants that offer healthy menu choices. If you are unfamiliar with a restaurant, call ahead to ask what types of foods are offered.
Have a game plan. Plan your order, or at least what you might order, before you walk in the door.
Be creative. Try salad, broth-or tomato-based soups, or healthy appetizers as your entree' or consider splitting an entree' with your dining partner.
Practice portion control. Order less food, and know when you've had enough. Go for feeling satisfied, not stuffed. Leave food on your plate, or ask for a take-home package for food you don't want to finish.
Ask how foods are prepared, and then ask for adjustments if necessary. Request salad dressing on side, fish broiled with lemon instead of butter, or the addition of mustard or extra tomato slices instead of mayonnaise.
Become fat savvy. Beware of ingredients high in saturated fat (butter, cream, cheese), high-fat methods of preparation (frying and sauteing) and fat-laden sauces and dressings (creamy salad dressings, gravies or cream sauces.)
You can really learn to enjoy eating in a restaurant while sticking to your dietary plans. All it takes is a little planning!
