How to Manage Your Meals When Eating Out

Also, see MRC Nutritional Guide to Eating Out.

Don't think you can eat out and eat healthy, too? Read on to learn more about managing your meal away from your kitchen. The act of eating out is practically woven into our society. While you don't have to pass on invitations to join others for a meal, you will need to follow some basic rules for dining out:

• Check for Food Preparation - They way foods are cooked can impact the amount of calories as well as the nutritional value. Choose foods that were steamed, grilled, roasted or poached. Generally speaking, these have less fat grams and fewer calories.
• Select Smaller Meals - In today's weight-conscious world, ordering an appetizer or healthy side dish instead of a regular entrée is common practice. It allows you to still enjoy eating out but these are usually served on smaller plates in smaller amounts.
• Avoid Trendy Drinks - You may feel trendy ordering a bottle of vitamin-infused water when dining out. Nonetheless, that brightly hued glass of H2O consists of vitamins added to sugar water with food coloring and is loaded with hidden calories.
• Ask for More Vegetables - Many restaurants and most fast food franchises are aware that some consumers are choosing to eat healthier. You can oft times ask to substitute additional vegetables in trade for less healthy sides at no additional cost.
• Divide Up Dessert - It is difficult to opt out of ordering a dessert with your best buds, when eating out. Be the one to suggest sharing and ask for extra plates. You will be helping yourself and others.

If you're on a diet, you already know eating out can be tricky. Since you are likely limiting calories, ask your server for help with the menu and make smart choices. 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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Although eating out can be tricky when you are on a diet, there are positive signs of progress. In fact, healthy fast food is no longer an oxymoron and most restaurants today offer alternatives that are both healthy and tasty. 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.