Healthy “Eating Out” Tips For Foodies!

Boy do I love food! Although I do most of my cooking at home, I do have at least one meal per week out of the house just to have a change of pace. By doing this you tend to realize or notice that you are probably taking in more calories on these eating out days than your home cooked meal days. You know what is in the meal that you prepared, every ingredient, but we can’t say the same for the restaurants. So to assist you with your calorie counting when dining out, these tips will help you make the most of it.

Eating Out Tips

Anytime you order pasta dishes, be on the lookout for tomato based sauces instead of the cream based sauces. Tomato based sauces are much lower in fat and calories.

Always order salad dressings or sauces on the side, as this way you have control over how much you add to your meal.

When you order grilled fish or vegetables, you should ask that the food be grilled without butter or oil, or prepared with very little.

You should always try to drink water or tea instead of soda or beverages that contain alcohol.

When you choose a soup, remember that cream based soups are higher in fat and calories than other soups. A soup can be a great appetizer, as most are low in calories and you fill you up pretty fast.

Choosing foods made with whole grains, such as whole wheat bread and dishes made with brown rice is a great way to eat healthy while eating out at a restaurant.

When ordering a baked potato, ask for salsa instead of sour cream, butter, cheese, or even bacon. Salsa is very low in calories and provides a healthy alternative with plenty of flavor and spice.

If you order dessert, share with a friend. Half of the dessert will equal half of the calories.

When you are full, stop eating. Listen to your body and what it tells you.

If you get full, take half of your meal home. The second portion of your meal can serve as a second meal later. This way, you get two meals for the price of one.

If you’re looking to eat less, order two appetizers or an appetizer and a salad as your meal.

If you get a choice of side dishes, get a baked potato or steamed vegetables instead of french fries.

Always look for food on the menu that’s baked, grilled, broiled, poached or steamed. These types of cooking use less fat in the cooking process and are usually lower in calories.

Eat plain bread or rolls which are low in both fat and calories. When you add the butter and oil, you increase the fat and calorie intake.

As key ingredients to your meal, choose dishes with fruits and vegetables. Both fruits and vegetables are great sources of dietary fiber as well as many vitamins and minerals.

If you crave dessert, look for something with low fat, such as berries or fruit.

And always remember, do not deprive yourself of the foods you truly love. All types of foods can fit into a well balanced diet!