Remember When You Used to Love Eating Out?

Also, see MRC Nutritional Guide to Eating Out.

Since eating out is one of life's great pleasures, it is important for you to adopt a process for guilt free dining. It can do wonders for your social life and help you develop the willpower to follow your menu plan regardless of when or where you eat. What you need to know is that you still can. There are healthy options for eating out, just heed these strategies:

• Liquid Calories Count - You can count on a few extra calories even when you order healthy options for your meal. One key to managing your dining experience is to control what you drink. So, avoid sugary or fat-laden liquid calories.
• Sweet Talk the Staff - When eating out, always try to substitute unhealthy side dishes with healthier food options. Ask for carrots or apple slices in place of French fries or onion rings. If you simply have to have the fried taste, split an order of fries but pass on dipping sauces.
• Avoid Fried Fatty Entrées - Fried foods are high in fat calories and cholesterol, and should be avoided, especially if you are trying to lose weight or maintain your weight. Opt for oven-grilled, broiled or baked.
• Watch for Dietary Claims - Dietary labels used in food marketing can find their way onto menus. Since sugars and fats are added to make the food taste better, vague claims do not necessarily mean a choice is healthy.
• Control the Portion You Eat - Restaurants tend to serve huge portions that are sometimes enough for two or even three people. Avoid the ‘clean your plate’ mentality and take leftovers home for another meal.

Eating out doesn't have to sabotage your health or cause you to lose control of your weight loss plan. By following smart eating strategies and planning ahead, you can become very adept at selecting the best menu items without sacrifice. Don't assume you're limited to exactly what you see on a restaurant's menu. Most chefs are more than happy to prepare a dish to suit your specific needs.

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If you’re going out to enjoy yourself, you shouldn't feel terrible about it. Download the Tips For Eating Out guidelines from the National Institute of Health and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute for additional advice on eating at franchise food chains.