How to Eat Out Without Wrecking Your Weight Loss Plan

Also, see MRC Nutritional Guide to Eating Out.

Sometimes where you eat is simply out of your control. When this happens, you need a strategy for navigating the danger zones at the restaurant, fast food chain or coffee shop. There are healthy options for almost every type of dining out. Sit-down restaurants, fast food franchises, coffee shops and even food trucks now offer food items that are better for you:

• Beware of Liquid Calories - The last thing you need when eating out is to order a fancy drink that doubles or triples your caloric intake without providing any additional nutrients. Water is always the best choice.
• Order Healthy Sides - Always balance your meal by ordering healthy side dishes, such as salad, fruit, fresh stemmed veggies or salsa. This will boost the nutritional value of your entrée without disproportionally raising the calorie count.
• Pick Your Sauces - Choosing a fresh tomato or vegetable-based sauce over a creamy or cheesy one can help cut calories and fat grams from your meal. Moreover, vegetable stocks also add nutrients that your body needs.
• Don't Hesitate to Substitute - Many restaurants honor requests to help you meet your nutritional needs, so don't hesitate to ask. A side salad with a weight-friendly vinaigrette dressing on the side is a smart choice.
• Leave Food on Your Plate - If you're tempted to clean your plate, ask your server to remove your plate and take a meal home in a carryout bag. This way, you control your portions and save money at the same time.

Eating out should be an enjoyable experience. Many sit-down restaurants, fast food franchises and coffee shops now offer delicious meals and menu items that are healthier for you. Nonetheless, it still takes some willpower and determination to identify which foods to order when dining out. If you do your homework, ask the right questions and make good decisions, you will be fine.

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Most restaurant meals were not created to be weight loss friendly and some are just plain unhealthy. But, it is entirely possible to eat out without causing havoc to your weight loss program. 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.