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| Dine Smart When Dining Out |
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It is estimated that close to half of all American adults eat out at least once a day.
So it is important that you know what goes into the meal you have just ordered and how to
make healthy food choices. Whether you're being wined and dined or having a quick bite out,
keep in mind the following when dining away from home.
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- Ask for salad dressing or sauces to be served on the side. That way you can control how much
you want on your food, instead of having excess amounts on that you don't want.
- Don't starve yourself all day if you are going out to a nice dinner in the evening. You will
be too hungry to eat with control. Have a light breakfast and lunch and have a small snack 1-2
hours before going. Make a special effort to avoid foods high in fats during the day because
your restaurant meal might not be particularly low in fat.
- When ordering pasta dishes, look for tomato-based sauces rather than cream-based sauces. Tomato
-based sauces are much lower in fat and calories. In addition, the tomato sauce (or marinara
sauce) can count as a vegetable!.
- Avoid cream-based soups as they are higher in fat and calories. Other broth-based soups are a
good choice as they are generally lower in calories and help to fill you up.
- Look for items that are roasted, grilled, steamed, boiled, stewed or poached. These items are
prepared without excess fat.
- If it is not clear from the menu, ask how the food is prepared. Guesswork can result in extra
calorie and fat intake when the food arrives fried, breaded, covered in rich sauces, dressings
or oils when you are not expecting it.
- Enjoy a baked potato, with toppings if you like, but go easy on the butter, sour cream &
bacon bits. Try some salsa on your baked potato for a lower calorie topping.
- Share a dessert or an appetizer with a friend. Half the portion equals half the calories.
- Order a salad as it will help fill you up and add 35% more dietary fiber to the meal.
- Stop eating when you are full — listen to the cues your body gives you even if there is food
left on your plate. Ask for a takeaway box if you do not like to waste the food - you can have
it for lunch the next day.
- If you have a high fat or high calorie item, balance it off with lower fat/calorie items the
rest of the day.
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Check out the Restaurant Guide to help you make informed choices
about the calorie and nutrient levels of various types of restaurant foods. Also take a look at
Fast Food Facts for items served some of the fast food outlets.
With a little planning, dining out does not have to blow your diet. In fact, it can be a pleasurable
experience as more places are offering healthy choices on their menus.
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