Decide What You Should Avoid Ahead of Time

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 policy 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. During the winter the days are shorter and time can easily get away from you over the holidays, so eating out can be a nice treat. But, don't let temptation alter your plan to manage what you eat by following a few simple tips:

• Beware of Liquid Calories - The last thing you need when eating out is to order a fancy drink that doubles or triples your caloric intake without providing any additional nutrients. Water is the best choice, but unsweetened tea or freshly squeezed fruit juices are also healthier choices.
• Order Healthy Sides – Offset your entrée by ordering healthy side dishes, such as salad, fruit, fresh stemmed veggies or salsa. This will boost the nutritional value of your entrée without disproportionally raising the calorie count.
• Beware of the Condiments - There are healthy ways to add flavor and spices to any meal without adding a ton of calories. On the other hand, condiments and sauces can be loaded with hidden sugars and fats, so choose wisely.
• Make Buffets Healthy - There's lots of healthy options when you eat at a buffet, or not. Hit the salad bar for fresh veggies but avoid calorie-laden dressings and toppings. Your entrée should be grilled, broiled, baked or roasted. Add a side of fresh vegetables and avoid the temptation to overeat.
• Avoid "All You Can Eat" - You can eat at an all-you-can-eat restaurant but avoid the mindset. Use smaller plates and focus on healthy choices. If you want a second helping of nutrient-rich vegetables, help yourself. But, avoid the dessert bar and foods cooked in heavy sauces or gravy.

Eating out doesn't have to sabotage your healthy diet 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. With the average person eating out multiple times each week, eating healthy at restaurants is becoming more important these days. Instead of worrying about how to get out of an invitation, do your homework and figure out what to avoid beforehand.

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In our fast paced society, eating out is almost inevitable and something that should be enjoyed. 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.