Eating Out Is Not an Excuse for Eating Unhealthy

 Also, see MRC Nutritional Guide to Eating Out.

Eating out can be a nice treat or convenient option when you find yourself short on time. Nonetheless, going to a restaurant and eating out should never be used as an excuse to eat unhealthy food. With a few simple strategies for eating healthy, you can keep your weight loss program on track. However, fat, calories, sugar and sodium can add up quickly, so use these tips to make healthier choices the next you dine out:

• Avoid Smoked or Sauced - Choose fewer foods that have been smoked or made with sauces like teriyaki or BBQ. Many restaurants already offer light versions of their most popular fare that contains much less sugar, sodium or fats.
• Order Healthy Sides - Always balance your meal by ordering healthy side dishes, such as salad, fruit, or fresh salsa. This will boost the nutritional value of your entrée without disproportionally raising the calorie count.
• Ask for More Veggies - Whether you are fine dining or eating fast food, you can always make your meal healthier by asking for extra vegetable toppings. A leafy green salad or side of seasonal vegetables is a perfect substitute for fries.
• Avoid Sugary Drinks - Most people have too much sugar in their diet, which can be bad for their health. Sugar-sweetened drinks are often a hidden source of calories that add no nutritional value.
• Take Time to Savor - Mindful eating means taking the time to savor the aromas and flavors of your meal. It will help you make better choices about what you eat as well as requires more attention to the eating process.

Check out the restaurant's online menu to be better prepared when you know you are eating out. Watching a sizzling piece of meat pass by your table may be tempting, but fatty cuts of meat sacrifice fat grams for flavor. So, stick to your plan and opt for chicken, seafood or a vegetable-based entrée.

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Most restaurant meals were not created to be weight-loss friendly and some are just unhealthy. But, it is entirely possible to eat out without causing havoc to your weight loss or weight management program. See our Tips For Eating Out for details about specific foods.