Never Use Fasting as a Precursor to Dining Out

When it comes to dining out, it is important that you’re not famished before you leave for the restaurant. Never use fasting or skipping a meal as a precursor to eating out. Depriving your body can lead to overeating once you’re distracted by friends and family. When you are dining out, always taste your food before adding condiments, sauces, or dressings. Cut out, cut back, or substitute unhealthy condiments and add-ons with a squeeze of lemon juice and pepper.

Studies have shown that it is difficult for most people to distinguish between thirst and hunger. Keep yourself well hydrated and try to drink a glass of water when you first sit down at the table before you eat anything else. Practicing a few self-disciplines means you can keep your social life intact without sacrifice to your goals for living healthy and eating well. Nonetheless, you have to make strategic menu choices based on the venue.

Although it is more difficult to know what goes into a dish, eating out is fun and helps to keep your social life intact. Nonetheless, you must hold yourself accountable for making smarter choices like those listed below:

• Japanese – There are healthy options available at Japanese restaurants, such as sashimi, fresh sushi rolls, and steamed dumplings. These are packed with protein and healthy fats with minimal calories.
• Mexican – Fajitas with a lean protein like shrimp or chicken combined with vegetables like bell peppers and onions use grilling, which is one of the healthiest cooking methods available. Nonetheless, hold the cheese and opt for soft tortillas.
• Chinese – While many Chinese dishes are bad for weight (carbs and fat) and blood pressure (high sodium content), there are options for eating healthier like steamed vegetable-rich entrees or stir-fried greens.
• Indian – Eating Indian food when dining or ordering out can be tricky whereas preparing in your own home is different. You start by using less ghee and add a healthy mix of complex carbs, veggies, and protein as well as those delicious Indian spices.
• Italian – If you’re eating out at an Italian restaurant, substitute a side salad for pasta, go easy on the dressing, and order grilled meat or seafood. Italian soups can also offer healthy options as most are filled with variety of vegetables.

While you can successfully eat healthy at any type of restaurant, it is easier to find healthier options at some ethnic food restaurants than others. In general, grilled proteins, less pastas, and non-fried options are better for dining out. When dining out, look for side dishes and entrées that are made with whole grains, such as barley or quinoa. Many restaurants today are now offering whole grain buns, wraps and crust as a better option for eating healthy.

At Metabolic Research Center, we have over three decades of experience in helping clients restore their health while meeting and maintaining their goals for living well. Contact us today to get started on your journey to better health. We’ve combined over three decades of research with firsthand experience to deliver a program for eating healthy and living well. To maximize your success, click Get Started and locate the MRC nearest you.