Eating Out the Healthy Way
May 04, 2010.
Oh boy, check out the menu! There’s some beef fried rice. Tacos laden with sour cream. Hey look – cheeseburger deluxe – with absolutely everything. No matter where you go to dine out, there are bound to be diet-killing options on the menu.
According to the National restaurant Association, about 24 percent of Americans eat their meals away from home. This puts a challenge on the plate for people dining who fall prey to poor food choices that can have devastating effects on the waistline. But there is good news because with a little knowledge, the opportunity does exist for you to put together a healthier meal at many restaurants you visit.
Better meal choices when dining out include ones with lean fish or chicken. Lean cuts of meat will do as well as vegetable-based sauces instead of ones created with lots of cream. Also, include lots of fruits and vegetables. There should be options available on many restaurant menus – including fast food. Recent drives toward full menu ingredient disclosure have also led to better offerings –although still somewhat limited – at many fast-food style restaurants.
Choosing a delicatessen style restaurant will afford you greater control of your meal-making choices. Since these types of restaurants often offer you options for building a sandwich, choose whole wheat, pumpernickel or rye – other than simply sticking to white bread. After bread selection, choose meats and cheeses carefully.
Deli meats can be incredibly high in salt, like pepperoni or salami. A better option would be low-fat ham or turkey. Limit cheeses because these are high in fat. Choose a great deal of vegetables for your sandwich that include tomatoes, cucumbers, and lots of green and red peppers that add nutrients. Skip using mayo and opt for mustard instead or a small dose of oil and vinegar with a spicing of pepper.
Finally, one poor choice to avoid eating out is even though you may have the ability to make a healthier meal, don’t overdo your eating. You can always take home food not eaten that can be tomorrow’s lunch.
