Eating healthier doesn’t mean saying no to dining out with friends and family. In fact, it’s possible to enjoy eating out and still maintain a healthy diet. By making some simple adjustments to what you eat and how you order, you can eat out without feeling guilty and still achieve your health goals.
Here are seven simple steps to eating healthier and enjoying dining out:
1. Research the Menu
Most restaurants have their menus available online, so take a few minutes to check them out before heading out. Look for healthy options such as salads, grilled meats, seafood or steamed vegetables. Also, check for options that can be modified to make them healthier like swapping fries for a side salad or dressing on the side.
2. Drink Water
Drinking water is one of the easiest ways to cut calories while dining out. Skip the sugary drinks and stick to water, sparkling water or unsweetened tea. Drinking water can also help you feel fuller, which can prevent overeating.
3. Control Your Portions
Restaurant portions are usually much larger than what you would eat at home. Consider sharing an entrée or ask for a to-go container right away and pack half your food before starting to eat. This way you can enjoy your meal and save the rest for another meal.
4. Choose Grilled, Baked or Steamed
Fried foods may be tempting, but they are often high in unhealthy fats and calories. Instead, choose grilled, baked or steamed dishes. These cooking methods help retain nutrients in your food while reducing the calorie count.
5. Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping meals before going out to eat can lead to overeating or making unhealthy choices. To avoid this, have a healthy snack or meal beforehand. This can help you make better decisions when ordering and keep you satisfied throughout the meal.
6. Watch the Dressings and Sauces
Salads can be a great healthy option, but not when they are loaded with dressing. Choose a vinaigrette, oil and vinegar, or ask for the dressing on the side, so you can control how much you use. Similarly, avoid dishes with creamy or heavy sauces.
7. Indulge Mindfully
Eating healthier doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in a dessert or treat. However, it’s important to do so mindfully. Share a dessert with someone or opt for a lighter option, such as fruit or sorbet. Remember, it’s about moderation, not deprivation.
In conclusion, eating healthier while dining out is possible with a few simple adjustments to your food choices and eating habits. By researching the menu, controlling your portions, choosing healthy cooking methods and indulging mindfully, you can enjoy dining out and still achieve your health goals.
