Monday, August 10, 2009

Healthy Options When Eating Out!

Eating out can put a damper on our healthy diets. Places like the cheesecake factory offer many salads and what seem to be healthier options but actually are LOADED with calories! The Grilled Chicken Tostada salad has over 1000 calories. Woah! Learning ways to eat healthier when you go out will make you feel less guilty about it and make you enjoy your meals way more!

1. Get your dressing on the side. Obviously salads aren't bad for you; it's usually the dressings and the extra fried chips and such that are smothering it. When possible ask for the dressing on the side this puts you in control of how much dressing and calories you are putting into your body!

2. Look at the menu before you go. Reviewing the menu and deciding what you want before you go keeps you from making rash decisions at the restaurant. Also many restaurants are offering their nutritional information on many websites online such as thedailyplate.com and calorielab.com which can help in your at home decision making!

3. Get the fish. Due to modern technology many restaurants are able to get fresh and delicious seafood with in just a few days of being caught. If you live on the coast especially New England you have access to some of the countries best seafood including cod, lobster and crab! All of which are very good for you. Try to get baked, seared, broiled or grilled seafood over fried and stay away from heavy sauces. Pair it with a seasonal vegetable and you will be good to go!

4. Eating well at the drive thru window. Sometimes eating on the go is necessary! Try some of these option when at the drive thru window.
1. Grilled Chicken Sandwich
2. Turkey Sandwich
3. Bean Burrito
4. Kids Meal Burger
5. Salads with dressing on the side.

5. Go healthy for dessert. Many restaurants offer fresh seasonal fruit with fresh whipped cream for dessert. Or craving chocolate, try to stay with dark chocolate. There's less sugar and the higher percent of cocoa solids a piece of chocolate has the higher amount of antioxidants :). I'm not saying eat a whole chocolate cake maybe split a piece with you're partner.

I hope these tips help you frequent eat-outers with keeping healthy and light.