Many of us, specifically women, routinely order salads at restaurants thinking it is the healthier choice on the menu. However, often times it is not. If you're watching your calorie intake and are craving a salad, request the dressing on the side and avoid cream or milk based dressings, which contain loads of calories and fat. A high sugar or high fat dressing or sauce can completely eliminate any calories you thought you were saving by ordering the salad. When dining out, ask your server about healthier alternatives to the menus. Many restaurants today have dishes that are prepared specifically for the weight-conscience. When in doubt, it is always wise decision to go with baked chicken, or fish and fresh vegetables.
Below are some additional helpful tips that you can adopt and incorporate into your healthy eating habits. Remember it is not a diet, it is a WAY OF LIFE.
Select a healthy menu item. Some restaurants point out healthy recipes for customers, but if not you can always opt for a salad with low calorie dressing. Lean meats that are broiled and served with vegetables are another good choice.
- Plan ahead. Have a small, healthy snack before you go so you are not starving when you arrive.
- Check the menu out on the Internet if you can and decide what you are having before you go.
- Ask for a “to go” container and box up half the meal before you begin eating. Most restaurant servings are very large, so you can have your leftovers the next day.
- Share a meal with a friend instead of eating it yourself. This is a good strategy for desserts as well.
- Be careful at the salad bar. While salad can be a healthy choice, make sure you don't add a lot of high calorie extras, such as cheese, olives and heavy, creamy dressings.
- Pass on beverages (juices, soda, etc.) and just have water. Save the calories for the meal.
- Ask for low fat preparations, such as egg white omelets.
- Subtract the cheese, bacon, mayonnaise and other high fat items from sandwiches.