Consider Sharing Appetizers and Entrées with Friends

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 when you are away from your kitchen. If you are trying to maintain or lose weight, you need to plan ahead; making the best decisions isn't always easy at the restaurant. Moreover, start by following these simple tips:

• Avoid Liquid Calories - Don't lose the benefits of eating healthier by choosing the wrong drink at mealtime. Always ask for a glass water, if you need extra liquid choose unsweetened tea, hot tea or other drinks that do not contain added sugars.
• 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.
• To Purée or Not to Purée - Sauces, gravy and purées can range from healthy to packed with hidden calories. Many ethnic-food sauces are loaded with added sugars and salt, whereas gravy tends to be fat-laden. A healthy fruit or vegetable purée is always a better choice.
• Half It! - If the portions served where you're eating tend to be large, opt to share an entrée or set half aside to take home for another meal. Never take home greasy appetizers, fried sides or desserts.
• Take It Home - If you are eating out because you don't have time to cook a meal, you have options. Since serving sizes are larger than ever, consider take out. That way you can create smaller portions and share a meal with yourself.

Whether you're dining at a sit-down restaurant or eating fast food, the biggest obstacle standing the way of eating healthy is you. Remember, you do not have to order exactly what's on the menu. Eating at a fancy sit-down restaurant doesn't necessarily mean you're making a healthier decision. Many menu options aren't much healthier than their fast food counterpart.

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Want to learn more about eating out at some of the most popular restaurants and food franchises? 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.