MRC Takes the Guesswork Out of Dining Out

Eating out at restaurants, you can say goodbye to knowing everything that goes into your food. However, menu descriptions often include common key words that will help you identify the most-unhealthy culprits. If you enjoy dining out or have to due to your schedule, do not think that you have to stop just because you’ve made a commitment to living well and eating healthy. Eating healthier has more to do with savvy substitutions and food preparation.

In general, opting for healthier cooking methods when eating out can help reduce your intake of fat, carbs, and sodium. Most foods that are crispy, crunchy, or sauteed will usually contain more calories, so choose wisely. Managing alcohol consumption can be crucial, especially for those who dine out often. Since hidden calories can add up quickly, drink water to quinch your thirst and nurse sip slowly on a glass wine through your entire dinner meal.

When dining out, start with a salad or eat your vegetables first. This will help you feel full sooner and ensure you’ve prioritized foods that provide healthy nutrients. Try the food strategies listed below the next time you eat out:

• Plan in Advance – If you have already planned your meals for the week, take a look at an online menu to pick dishes that are similar to what you would have been eating at home. That way you can enjoy eating out and socializing without sabotaging your progress.
• Stay Hydrated – Although you don’t have to deprive yourself of a glass of wine, it is important to limit your intake to one drink. Alcohol can stimulate your appetite and make it more difficult to make healthy food choices at each phase of your meal.
• Ask for Substitutions – You should be able to enjoy eating out without sacrifice to your commitment to live a healthier life. But, you need to avoid that moment of reckless abandonment and ask for substitutions that won’t waste the progress you’ve made.
• Order Colorful Foods – In addition to giving fruits and vegetables their eye-catching coloration, phytochemicals make it easy to select foods that are richest in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants to order and eat healthy when dining out.

Alcoholic drinks can double or triple your intake of non-nutrient calories. When you eat out, ask for a glass of water with a lemon wedge or select a drink that contributes some nutrients, such as low-fat milk. 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 add nutrients that your body needs.

At the Metabolic Research Center, our programs are simple to follow, and you will eat real, nutritious foods both at home and when you order out at a restaurant. Best of all, we remove all the guesswork. Our team of MRC weight loss coaches will always be there to support you each step of the way as you establish new habits for eating healthy and living well. To Get Started today, click the button to find the MRC center nearest you.