Ask to Have Your Food Prepared in the Healthiest Way

Also, see MRC Nutritional Guide to Eating Out.

Do you know the best foods to order when dining out? Listed below are tips for eating out without destroying your diet. During the winter months when you're hungry but only have a few minutes, fast food may be the quickest solution. Healthier fast food options are out there but avoid these temptations:

• Pick the Way Food Is Cooked - Grilled will almost invariably be healthier than fried and steamed foods will fill your belly with less fat, calories and cholesterol. Chicken or shrimp are usually good choices for your protein.
• Have It on the Side - When dining out or eating fast food, always ask for toppings, butter, cheese, sauces and gravy to be served on the side. This way, you control how much you consume.
• Keep It Small - Portion sizes in restaurants and fast food drive-ins encourage you to order bigger than you would normally have eaten at home. Ask for half portions or share with a friend.
• Order Low-Calorie Beverages - Be aware that alcoholic beverages have hidden calories, stimulate your appetite and weaken your willpower. Instead, order water or sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime.
• Avoid Ordering Dessert - If others at the table order dessert, ask for a cup of fresh fruit that is allowed on your menu plan or sip on a cinnamon-sprinkled cappuccino.

Sticking to your menu plan when eating out can be difficult but it is not impossible. Invest the time to determine the healthiest options wherever you choose to eat. If you not familiar with their menu, most sit-down restaurants, fast food franchises and food trucks, post menus online. Creating your plan before you arrive makes it easier to avoid snap decisions you might regret later.

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If you want to learn more about eating healthy meals at restaurants, fast food franchises, coffee shops and more, 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.