Cut Out Unhealthy Ingredients When Dining Out

There is often an abundance of unhealthy choices that can be tempting to anyone who is dining out but committed to watching what they eat. But sticking to your plan doesn’t have to be difficult, if don’t mindlessly overindulge. When you are dining out, always taste your food before adding condiments, sauces, or dressings. Cut out, cut back, or substitute unhealthy condiments and add-ons with a squeeze of lemon juice and pepper.

Not everything about a dish is obvious from its menu listing, so never hesitate to ask your server about food preparation and overall ingredients as part of your due diligence. Restaurants today cater to health-conscious consumers. Be careful about how you use condiments and toppings. Lightly dressing your salad and dipping your food in a sauce is a lot healthier than drenching your food. Remember that anything ketchup based contains a lot of added sugar.

Don’t let enjoying a meal out at a favorite restaurant ruin your goals for eating healthy and living well. Following some of the strategies listed below can make eating out delicious and as healthy as possible:

• Japanese – The method for cooking Teriyaki and Hibachi is the same but Hibachi uses soy sauce, whereas Teriyaki cuisine is prepared using sweeter and more seasoned sauces that are higher in calories.
• Mexican – Fajitas with a lean protein like shrimp or chicken combined with vegetables like bell peppers and onions use grilling, which is one of the healthiest cooking methods available. Nonetheless, hold the cheese and opt for soft tortillas.
• Chinese – When eating at a Chinese restaurant, your server can help with creating healthier versions of your favorites. Steamed dishes are the best but stir-fries that include vegetables and are cooked in lighter oil are okay. Beware of sauces and dips that can contain lots of sugar, sodium, and fat.
• Indian – Eating Indian food when dining or ordering out can be tricky whereas preparing in your own home is different. You start by using less ghee and add a healthy mix of complex carbs, veggies, and protein as well as those delicious Indian spices.
• Italian – Eating Italian can be tricky. To eat healthy, you have to avoid rich foods smothered in creamy cheese, high in fat, sodium, and calories. Also, watch for unlimited breadsticks and oversized servings.

When you are adjusting to eating healthy, it is always easier to prepare your meals at home rather than dine out, but likely not sustainable. At MRC, we prepare you for what to expect the next time you meet someone for lunch or need to dine out. When dining out, look for side dishes and entrées that are made with whole grains, such as barley or quinoa. Many restaurants today are now offering whole grain buns, wraps and crust as a better option for eating healthy.

Metabolic Research Center has been helping people just like you to eat healthy for over 40 years. Our science-based approach to living well provides the one-on-one support you need to succeed, and our plans can work for your entire family. Discover and uncover what makes your body different for someone else and learn how to use this information to your advantage when eating at home or dining out. Everyone is different, so click Get Started to find the MRC nearest you.