Never Hesitate to Ask How Your Food Is Prepared

Also, see MRC Nutritional Guide to Eating Out.

Don't let eating out ruin your weight loss plan. Learn how to select the best options while avoiding the worst. Although it is true that fast food is often high in sodium, fat and carbohydrates than it should be, healthier options are available at the most popular places to eat. Regardless of where you eat, try to avoid making these mistakes:

• Read the Menu - Added sugars and fats can hide in many places, so always beware of "sugar free" and "fat free" options. They can be just as unhealthy as regular sugar or butter, if not more so. When in doubt, ask how a dish is prepared and seasoned.
• Savor a Salad - Whether you start your meal with a fresh salad packed with healthy vegetables or choose a salad as your side, salads help you feel satisfied sooner. Always ask for the dressing on the side and be sparring.
• Control Fat Grams - When eating out, it is easy to make healthy choices only to suffer a dietary setback from how your meal was prepared. Order baked, grilled, or broiled and avoid fatty sauces or gravy.
• Fill Your Plate with Veggies - Certain dishes like kabobs or stir-fries usually contain more vegetables and are filled with satisfying flavors. For your side, select a fresh seasonal fruit cup.
• Watch What You Drink - When eating out, anyone who is watching their weight knows to watch what they eat. Moreover, the environment can cause someone to ignore what they drink. Choosing drinks that tweak your metabolism or curb your appetite can help your weight loss journey.

Even though you're watching what you eat, most restaurants have gotten on the bandwagon and offer some fabulous diet-friendly food options. So, never hesitate to ask for assistance with any menu item. At the Metabolic Research Center, we look beyond the fads to deliver reliable, life-changing advice for managing your weight. Connect with your local MRC today to unlock the potential of eating real foods.

______________________________

Interested in finding the healthiest menu options from your favorite restaurants? 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.