Eating healthy while eating out
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EmailLearn useful tips for eating healthy while enjoying the experience of eating out at a restaurant.
Let’s face it, even if you love to cook there will be times when you don’t have the time or ingredients to prepare a meal…or you just need a break. Dining out is a great option, but if you are trying to eat healthier, you might find it a challenge to make good choices.
The encouraging news is that dining out can be healthy with smart choices. The key is learning how to choose food from the menu that is considered to be a healthier choice and to watch your portions.
One of the first things you can do is check out the menu ahead of time. Many restaurants post menus online, so take a few minutes to look for an establishment that fits your dietary needs. Does the menu offer entrees that are lower in calories, salt and saturated fat? Key words to look for are light, fresh, baked, broiled and steamed.
When you get to the restaurant, consider drinking a glass of water instead of a cocktail and bypass the temptation of appetizers, breadbaskets, or chips with salsa. These items tend to be higher in fat, sodium and carbohydrates and add unnecessary calories to your diet. Don’t be afraid to ask your server for more information when it comes to ordering: “How is this item prepared?” or “Can this be prepared in a different way?” are good questions to ask.
If you order food with a sauce consider marinera over those that are made with cream and butter. Same with salad dressings – opt for the vinegarettes over creamy dressings. Many restaurants will give you the option to have your sauce or dressing served in a separate dish allowing you to decide how much to add to your food.
Food establishments tend to serve larger portions, so think about sharing your order with a family or friend or divide it in half and take the leftovers home for another meal. If you’re tempted to order dessert, choose a dish of fresh fruit or share a dessert entrée with those who are with you…sometimes a bite is just enough to satisfy the sweet tooth.
USDA MyPlate, American Heart Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide additional resources for those who are looking for heart healthy and diabetes friendly options when dining out.
Michigan State University Extension offers nutrition and disease prevention management classes that focus on making healthier food choices. To learn more about health Extension programs and to sign up for a class, visit the websites above or visit our virtual event calendar.
