It can be tough to make healthy choices when eating out. Restaurants add extra calories, fat and sodium with oil, butter and salt. Unfortunately, this is a challenge for those who are trying to eat well. However, there are some strategies that you can use to make healthy choices when dining out. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best menu options and strategies for eating healthy at restaurants.
One healthy option when dining out is to choose a dish that is grilled, baked or steamed. These cooking methods will help to reduce the amount of fat and calories in your meal. Another healthy option is to select a lean protein, such as chicken or fish. If you are ordering a salad, opt for dressing on the side so that you can control the amount of dressing that you consume. And, finally, be sure to select sides that are healthy, such as a side salad or vegetables.
When it comes to making healthy choices at restaurants, it is also important to be mindful of portion sizes. Oftentimes, restaurant portions are much larger than what we would typically eat at home. So, when ordering your meal, be sure to request a to-go box and put half of your meal in the box before you even start eating. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without overindulging.
Following these healthy food tips will help you make better choices when dining out and will allow you to stick to your healthy eating goals.
Apart from this, you can follow the below 14 steps:
1. Scan the menu:
Before you even open the menu, scan it for healthy options. Look for words like “baked,” “grilled,” and “steamed,” which are all indicative of healthier cooking methods. You should also look for lean protein options, such as chicken or fish.
2. Opt for dressing on the side:
If you’re ordering a salad, ask for the dressing on the side. This way, you can control how much dressing you use, and you may find that you don’t need as much as you think.
3. Choose healthy sides:
When it comes to sides, opt for healthy choices like a side salad or vegetables. Avoid fried sides, such as french fries or onion rings.
4. Request a to-go box:
Restaurant portions are often much larger than what we would eat at home. So, when your meal comes, request a to-go box and put half of your food in it before you even start eating.
5. Don’t drink your calories:
Soda, alcohol, and other sugary drinks can add a lot of empty calories to your meal. Instead, opt for water or unsweetened tea.
6. Fill up on vegetables:
Start your meal with a salad or order a side of vegetables. This way, you’ll fill up on healthy nutrients and may be less likely to overeat.
7. Limit processed foods:
Processed foods are often high in calories, fat, and sodium. To make healthier choices, limit or avoid processed foods when dining out.
8. Watch your toppings:
Be mindful of the toppings you add to your food. Opt for healthy toppings, such as salsa or guacamole, and avoid high-calorie toppings, such as cheese or sour cream.
9. Split a dish:
If you’re dining with someone, consider splitting a dish. This can help you control your portion size and save money.
10. Avoid sneaky salad saboteurs:
Beware of salad traps, such as croutons, bacon bits, and creamy dressings. These ingredients can turn a healthy salad into a calorie bomb.
11. Nix the extra salt:
Restaurants often add extra salt to their dishes. If you’re watching your sodium intake, be sure to ask for your food to be made without salt.
12. Remember “no BOSS.”:
BOSS stands for “no butter, oil, or salt.” Asking your food to be prepared without these ingredients can help to reduce the fat and calorie content of your meal.
13. Don’t be afraid to ask questions:
If you’re unsure about a menu item, don’t hesitate to ask your server for more information. They can help you make the best choices for your health.
14. Hygiene:
Wash your hands before you eat and avoid touching your face. And, be sure to wear a face mask when dining out.
Also make sure kitchen is clean and chef should wear proper chef dresses like chef jackets, chef hats, shoe etc to avoid any unhealthy hygiene
With these healthy tips, you can make better choices when dining out and stick to your healthy eating goals. So, next time you’re at a restaurant, keep these tips in mind to help you make healthier choices.
