Avoid Oversized Meals When Eating Away from Home

Eating out at restaurants, you can say goodbye to knowing everything that goes into your food. However, menu descriptions often include common key words that will help you identify the most-unhealthy culprits. 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. You don’t have to be perfect.

As long as you avoid over-sized meals that can spell disaster for your waistline, dining out with friends and family is still as great way to reconnect. Just remember a good game plan reduces the need for damage control. For some people, eating out is only an occasional indulgence while it is a way of life for others. Either way, eating healthy and living well depends on the making smart choices and eating your best even whenever you dine out.

When dining out, start with a salad or eat your vegetables first. This will help you feel full sooner and ensure you’ve prioritized foods that provide healthy nutrients. Try the food strategies listed below the next time you eat 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 – Some cultures believe mineral water has added digestive benefits. You can order a glass with a twist of lemon or lime from the time you get to the bar and throughout your entire meal. Sipping water will help you fill up more quickly.
• Ask for Substitutions – Making simple swaps and opting for healthier food preparation methods are helpful for making healthier choices when you are dining out. Conversely, you can use your favorite restaurant’s menu for inspiration at home.
• Order Colorful Foods – In addition to giving fruits and vegetables their eye-catching coloration, phytochemicals make it easy to select foods that are richest in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants to order and eat healthy when dining out.

Eating out doesn’t have to derail your plans for living well and eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to forego an invitation to dine out at some new restaurant. Making good food choices works the same at home and on the road. Always taste your food first as even small amounts of condiments can add up quickly. Consider substituting high fat toppings with lemon juice, pepper, red wine vinegar, or mustard-based dressings.

At Metabolic Research Center, our science-based approach to eating healthy and living well are designed using real foods that your entire family can enjoy. Find out for yourself how healthy food choices can make a difference in how you look and feel. MRC provides the highest quality nutritional support available to boost your metabolism and keep you in control of your food choices whether you are eating in or dining out.