Dining out is a pretty common thing these days. I eat out at a restaurant at least once per week, sometimes more. And usually it’s to socialise with my friends.
So how do you eat out but maintain your healthy eating? These are some guidelines that I try to go by. Although occasionally I will order something unhealthy. Dessert is my weakness!
Here are my top 5 tips for eating out:
1. Don’t order deep fried food
A side of chips or tempura prawns might sound good at the time, but it’s not going to make you feel good on the inside or outside! You could probably also add to this list anything that is crumbed or battered. These types of foods are super high in calories and fat. The simple answer here is just not to order it.
2. Avoid white rice, pasta and potatoes
It goes without saying that most Asian restaurants will have rice with most dishes and most Italian restaurants will have pasta. Both of these types of restaurants will always have delicious salads and / or healthy alternatives. If they have brown rice then this is a great alternative. Oh and say no to the breaded entrees!
White potato is almost always on the menu. You might think it’s healthier to get mash potato instead of fries but this is not a good option either, because they will most likely add butter, cream, etc. Just so you’re aware, one large white potato contains 280 calories and 63 grams of carbohydrates. It is best to avoid white potato altogether.
3. Select a meal with lots of vegetables
Scan the menu, pick out some of your favourite meals and then choose the one with the most vegetables. Vegetables keep you full and are very low in calories and high in nutrients. Seriously, eat as many vegetables as you can! Your body will love you for it.
4. Avoid creamy dressings
I bet you’ve heard this a lot. I have too. But then I actually did some research to find out how many calories were in one serving of caesar salad dressing and was shocked. Think 3 tablespoons of Caesar’s salad dressing won’t hurt? That’s 234 calories and 24 grams of fat! A good alternative is balsamic or vinegar based dressings.
5. Take home what you can’t eat
You feel like you need to eat absolutely every little thing on your plate because you paid for it, even if you’re bursting at the seams. Why? If you’re full, just stop. Most places will allow you to take home any food that you can’t eat. Or I’m sure there will be someone else at your table willing to help you finish it off!
It’s FREE