Select Appetizers Carefully When Dining Out

Also, see MRC Nutritional Guide to Eating Out.

Dining out, even on a frequent basis, does not have to wreck your weight loss program. Simply learn how to stay on track and you can eat healthy at any restaurant. 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 healthier meals:

• Drink Wisely - If you are going to drink alcohol, be very selective of calories and limit it to a single drink. Sparkling water on ice with a wedge of lime is a much healthier option.
• Select Appetizers Carefully - There are numerous misconceptions when it comes to ordering appetizers. Both soups and salads can be loaded with fats, sodium and sugars, whereas fresh crab-stuffed mushrooms can be a healthier option.
• Cut Back on Condiments - Always taste your food before adding salt, butter, sauces and dressings, then substitute healthier choices, such as mustard for mayonnaise; or lemon juice for salt; or a spice mix in place of a sauce or gravy.
• Order Plant-Based Foods - Order your favorite vegetables when dining out and ask how they will be prepared. Don't smother your salad with a high-fat dressing or cover veggies in a rich cream sauce.
• Never Clean Your Plate - Although you may have been taught to clean your plate, that's a bad habit. If you never clean your plate, you won't be tempted to have second helpings.

According to the National Institute of Health, you do not have to give up eating out, or even fast food restaurants, to eat right. Follow some proven tips when ordering to make heart healthy choices and enjoying your meal. With the average person eating out multiple times each week, eating healthy at restaurants is becoming more important these days. Instead of worrying about how to get out of an invitation, do your homework and figure out what to avoid beforehand.

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If you want to learn more about eating healthy meals at restaurants, fast food franchises, coffee shops and more, 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.