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Any tips on eating out healthy?
Think you can’t eat out and stay on track? Think again. There are a lot of places I know where you can order something healthy that tastes great.
Whether you’re at your local deli, diner or steak house, there are plenty of foods to choose from. Eating out should be enjoyable and not stressful. Who wants to be out on the town and not have a good time?
Here are a couple of tricks that can keep it fun without tacking on any extra baggage:
- Plan for your meal and eat lighter that day. This doesn’t mean skip meals, but watch your portions. Increase foods that are high in nutritional value (fruits and vegetables) and avoid any extra snacks/calories.
- Throw in some extra activity. This will help burn off extra calories and provide a little window room for any additional intake that day.
- Know your menu. One of the easiest ways to stay on track is to know what is being served. If you have the opportunity, pick a restaurant that you know serves great-tasting healthy options. I tend to pick a restaurant where I can get something that keeps me on track but still keeps me satisfied.
- Skip the freebies. Be careful of freebies like bread. Try to stick to one piece.
- Split that dish! The portions are usually big, anyway! I know they want us to feel like we are getting our money’s worth, but the portions served can be double or more what we should be eating.
- Double down (or up)! If I have an option of two side dishes, I tell them to double up on the veggies! This way, you get more vitamins and minerals with fewer calories.
Eating Out Substitution Tips:
1. Pastry type appetizers – instead try fresh vegetables or fruit (watch those dips!)
2. Cream soups – instead try broth-based soup
3. Fatty meats (rib eye, T-bone) – instead try Filet Mignon, flank steak or tenderloin.
4. Fried foods – instead try baked, blackened or steamed foods
5. Potatoes and gravy or French fries – instead try baked sweet potato, rice or cooked vegetables.
6. Prepared salads (coleslaw, pasta) - instead try fresh salad (load up the lettuce, tomatoes, and carrots!).
7. Butter or cream sauces – instead try Marinara, wine or broth-based sauces.
8. Cakes, pies – instead try fresh fruit, yogurt or sherbet; skip it and have a decaffeinated beverage.
Ultimately, it’s important you enjoy your experience eating healthy – no guilt, just good food and conversation!
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