Healthy Eating Tips for Dining Out

Eating out can be a real challenge when you are watching what you eat. How can you remain true to your nutritional plan when you are dining out? Being proactive, evaluating the menu for healthy, nutritious foods, and asking specifically for what you would like are all methods to help you stay focused. Review the tips below to learn how to enjoy eating out while working toward your health goals.

--Firstly, be proactive. Plan ahead--decide where you will go to eat.

--Then, review the restaurant's menu online. Or you can call the restaurant to inquire about the types of dishes they serve. Ask specifically about the availability of some of your favorite healthy entrees and side dishes.

--If you know the dishes they prepare, you can decide, in advance, what you might like to order. Doing so helps avoid picking some incredibly high-calorie, high-fat dish on impulse when you get there. Go with a plan in mind.

--Don't begin your meal by eating the "extras" like breads and crackers often placed on the table. Ask that no bread or crackers be brought until the entrée or salad is served. At Mexican restaurants, ask them not to bring the tortilla chips and salsa. If your dining companions want these items on the table, ask them to keep these snacks out of your reach.

--Review the menu, looking for fresh fruit and vegetable dishes. It's wise to order a salad to take the edge off hunger and to prevent eating too much of your entrée, as they tend to be higher calorie foods. Ask for low fat or vinaigrette dressing for salad.

--Order entrees without sauces and cheeses. Or ask for them on the side--a grilled chicken breast or fish selection with sauce on the side allows you to decide how much of the sauce you will eat.

--For side dishes, steamed vegetables are becoming more popular in restaurants and are often available. Also, a baked potato with sour cream on the side (no butter) again gives the choice to you in terms of how much of the sour cream you wish to have.

--Ask the wait staff to have your food prepared with as little fat as possible. You can also order a dish without the sauce. Ask for substitutions--many restaurants are happy to provide customers with choices. And the chefs are very willing to accommodate diners' requests.

--Request a food container be brought when your meal is served. You can then put about a third to a half of your meal into the container and set it aside before you begin eating. Take that food portion home to eat later, if you like.

When you are going to eat out, plan ahead by deciding on the restaurant in advance. After you arrive at the restaurant, avoid snacking on the initial extras they bring to the table. Then, scan the menu for healthy items. Next, ask the wait staff for exactly what you want. Finally, consider splitting your meal in two and placing half in a take-out container before you dine to avoid over-eating. By following these tips, you can handle the challenge of eating out and still keep your nutritional program intact.