EATING OUT AND STAYING HEALTHY

Eating out can become a huge challenge when trying to stay healthy. Life can be busy, and many events are focused on food: friends and family, and even business meetings, it seems like there is always some reason for us to go out to eat. Using the information given in this article, you will be able to go out to eat without feeling that you are going to gain ten pounds!

The number one problem with restaurant food is portion sizes. We all know how tempting it is to see that delicious plate of food and want to eat the whole thing. Don’t do it! The portions that restaurants serve you are almost DOUBLE the size they should be.

There are a few tricks you can use to help this problem. If you are on a date or out with a friend ask them if they would like to split a dish with you. Not only is this healthier but it will also save you money! Another option is to order a plate of food but before you start to eat cut everything in half and only eat half of it. The rest you can take home and use as lunch or dinner for the next day. Who doesn’t love opening their fridge and remembering that they have a pre-made delicious meal right in front of them!?

When deciding what to order, start out with a salad with low-fat dressing. I prefer to use a vinegarette dressing, just oil and vinegar can be very satisfying on a salad. Eating the salad will help to fill you up so that you won’t be tempted overeat when they bring out your main dish.

When ordering the main dish, take a look at the bottom of the menu. At most restaurants, there will be a key with pictures that show you what items are healthier than others. Don’t be afraid to ask your waiter/waitress what dishes are healthier.

Skipping out on dessert is also a great way to avoid eating unwanted calories. To make it easier to say no don’t even look at the dessert portion of the menu. Seeing the pictures of the delicious looking desserts will only make them harder to resist. If you feel like you want something sweet, turn to a healthier alternative such as a fruit salad.

The next time you go out to eat just remember the information from this article. You don’t need to feel guilty about eating out every once in a while if you are being careful about what you order and how much of it you eat.

Author Alexi Gibbs ©