Good Food Choices When Dining Out Are Usually More Filling

Although you’re working hard at home to eat healthy, eating a meal out at a restaurant does not have be a step backward. Take time to decipher the menu and avoid dishes with ingredients that are obviously unhealthy. Just because you’ve made a commitment to living well, it is not realistic to assume you will never eat out again. While dining out may not be as healthy as cooking your own food, there are numerous ways to make healthy food choices.

In general, opting for healthier cooking methods when eating out can help reduce your intake of fat, carbs, and sodium. Most foods that are crispy, crunchy, or sauteed will usually contain more calories, so choose wisely. Managing alcohol consumption can be crucial, especially for those who dine out often. Since hidden calories can add up quickly, drink water to quinch your thirst and nurse sip slowly on a glass wine through your entire dinner meal.

Before you head to a restaurant, check the internet for menu information. This will allow you to make smarter food choices that are lower in calories, sugar, sodium, and saturated fat. Moreover, check out the tips below for dining out:

• Plan in Advance – If you have already planned your meals for the week, take a look at an online menu to pick dishes that are similar to what you would have been eating at home. That way you can enjoy eating out and socializing without sabotaging your progress.
• Stay Hydrated – Eating plenty of water-filled fruits and vegetables is a healthy way to maintain weight and support your commitment to living well. Staying hydrated helps to flush toxins from your body and gives a boost to the metabolism.
• Ask for Substitutions – Many dieters think that eating out is the source of all evil; but it doesn’t have to be. Making a few substitutions to ingredients and meal preparation methods should allow you to make healthy choices off most menus.
• Order Colorful Foods – Since no single food can provide you with the variety of nutrients you need, order colorful foods when dining out. Moreover, don’t ignore how your food will be prepared to ensure you are eating well.

Eating somewhere other than your kitchen can be fun and sociable but it can also be intimidating if you’ve just started your program for eating healthy and living well. Just remember to stick to your goals by making the same good food choices you do at home. Choosing a fresh tomato or vegetable-based sauce over a creamy or cheesy one can help cut calories and fat grams from your meal. Moreover, vegetable stocks add nutrients that your body needs.

At MRC, you learn how to select the best options when eating out while avoiding less healthy menu items. Good food is often more filling and provides larger amounts of key nutrients, protein, and fiber to keep you feeling full longer. When you choose Metabolic Research Center as your partner for living well, we will teach you how to eat real foods in a way that satisfies your hunger and puts you in control whether you’re eating in or dining out.