You may think that eating out means sacrificing your health goals, but with the right tips and tricks, you can still enjoy a delicious meal while staying on track.
In this article, we will provide you with evidence-based strategies to eat out healthily. From planning ahead and researching menus to making smart choices when ordering, we’ve got you covered.
So don’t let dining out derail your progress – read on to discover how to navigate restaurant menus safely and make informed decisions for your well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Control portion sizes and avoid overeating by using small plates and bowls.
- Listen to hunger and fullness cues to eat until satisfied, not overly stuffed.
- Enjoy treats occasionally by opting for healthier options like dark chocolate or fruit-based desserts.
- Focus on overall balance of diet by prioritizing a variety of nutrient-rich foods and avoiding excessive consumption of processed foods.
Plan Ahead and Research Menus
You should plan ahead and research menus to make sure you can find healthy options when eating out. Researching options before going to a restaurant can help you identify places that offer nutritious meals.
Many restaurants now provide their menus online, so take advantage of this by reviewing the choices available. Look for keywords like grilled, steamed, or baked, as these cooking methods tend to be healthier than fried or breaded options.
Additionally, consider meal planning before dining out. If you know where you’ll be eating, try adjusting your other meals throughout the day to balance out your calorie intake. This way, you can enjoy your meal without worrying about overindulging in unhealthy foods.
By taking these steps and being proactive in your approach, you can eat out healthily while still enjoying delicious meals.
Make Smart Choices When Ordering
When ordering at a restaurant, it’s important to make smart choices to ensure you’re eating healthily. Opt for grilled or baked options instead of fried ones, as they are lower in calories and saturated fats.
Choose whole grain or vegetable-based sides instead of french fries or creamy coleslaw, as they provide more fiber and nutrients.
Lastly, control your portion sizes by asking for smaller portions or sharing a meal with a friend to avoid overeating.
By making these simple choices, you can enjoy eating out while still maintaining a healthy diet.
Opt for Grilled or Baked Options
Instead of fried foods, opt for grilled or baked options when eating out to make healthier choices. Grilled foods are cooked over an open flame or on a grill, allowing excess fat to drip away, resulting in a lower calorie content. Baked options, on the other hand, are prepared by dry heat in an oven without added oils or fats. This cooking method helps retain more nutrients and reduces the need for unhealthy ingredients.
Choosing grilled or baked options offers several benefits:
- Reduced fat intake: Grilling and baking require minimal oil, making them ideal for those watching their fat consumption.
- Retained nutrients: These cooking methods preserve the natural vitamins and minerals present in the food.
- Lower risk of heart disease: By avoiding excessive frying and breading, you can reduce your intake of trans fats and unhealthy additives.
By making this simple switch in your ordering habits, you can enjoy delicious meals while prioritizing your health and well-being.
Choose Whole Grain or Vegetable-based Sides
Opt for sides made with whole grains or vegetables to add nutritional value to your meal. When it comes to choosing side dishes while eating out, opting for whole grain options can provide you with a variety of health benefits.
Whole grains contain all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, which makes them rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. On the other hand, refined grains have been stripped of these valuable nutrients during processing. By choosing whole grains as your side dish, you are ensuring that you’re getting more fiber and essential nutrients into your diet.
Additionally, incorporating vegetable-based sides into your meal can further enhance its nutritional profile. A diet rich in vegetables has been associated with numerous health benefits such as reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer. Vegetables are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall well-being.
By choosing sides made with whole grains or vegetables when dining out, you can make healthier choices without compromising on taste or enjoyment.
Control Portion Sizes
To control portion sizes, you should be mindful of how much food you’re consuming. Portion control is an important aspect of eating out healthily.
When dining at restaurants, it’s easy to get carried away with large portions and end up overeating. To avoid this, pay attention to the size of the dishes being served and consider sharing a meal with someone else or asking for a smaller portion.
Another helpful tip is to use smaller plates and bowls, as research has shown that people tend to eat less when using smaller dishware.
Additionally, try to eat slowly and savor each bite, allowing your brain enough time to register fullness signals from your stomach.
By practicing mindful eating and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy eating out while still maintaining a healthy diet.
Be Mindful of Your Beverages
When eating out, it’s important to be mindful of the beverages you choose. Healthy beverage options can make a significant difference in your overall health and well-being. Here are three tips for mindful drinking:
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Opt for water or unsweetened tea: These drinks are not only hydrating but also calorie-free. They can help quench your thirst without adding unnecessary sugar or calories to your meal.
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Limit sugary drinks: Drinks like soda, fruit juices, and sweetened iced teas are often loaded with added sugars. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
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Watch out for alcoholic beverages: Alcoholic drinks can be high in calories and may impair judgment when it comes to making healthy food choices. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and consider lower-calorie options like light beer or spritzers.
By being mindful of your beverage choices when eating out, you can enjoy a healthier meal while still satisfying your thirst.
Ask for Modifications
If you’re looking to make your meal healthier, consider asking for modifications. Customizing orders and asking for substitutions can make a big difference in reducing calories, fat, and sodium intake. By making simple changes to your order, you can still enjoy eating out while prioritizing your health. Here are some ideas for modifications that you can request:
Food Item | Modification |
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Burger | Ask for a whole wheat bun or lettuce wrap instead of a white bun |
Salad | Request dressing on the side to control portion size |
Sandwich | Opt for lean protein like grilled chicken or turkey instead of processed meats like bacon or salami |
Side Dish | Swap french fries with steamed vegetables or a side salad |
Remember, don’t be afraid to ask the server about what options are available. Most restaurants are willing to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions. So next time you dine out, be proactive and make small changes that will lead to a healthier meal!
Practice Portion Control
When it comes to practicing portion control, there are several key points to keep in mind.
First, consider splitting meals with a friend or dining companion. This allows you to enjoy your favorite dishes while still keeping portions in check.
Additionally, taking half of your meal home is a great way to control portion sizes and have leftovers for another meal.
Finally, using small plates and bowls can trick your brain into thinking you’re eating more than you actually are, helping you feel satisfied with smaller portions.
Split Meals with a Friend
Splitting meals with a friend is a great way to save money and control portion sizes while eating out healthily. Sharing plates allows you to try different dishes without overindulging.
When dining out, look for healthy alternatives on the menu, such as grilled or steamed options instead of fried foods. You can also ask the server for modifications, like substituting fries for a side salad or requesting sauces and dressings on the side.
By splitting meals, you can enjoy your favorite restaurant dishes while still making mindful choices. It’s important to choose a friend who shares your goals and preferences when it comes to healthy eating.
Remember, portion control is key to maintaining a balanced diet, so don’t be afraid to split that delicious entree with someone else!
Take Half of Your Meal Home
Remember, you can always take half of your meal home to enjoy later. Taking leftovers is a great way to manage portions and ensure you’re not overeating when dining out.
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and finish everything on your plate, but by taking half of your meal home, you’ll be able to control your portion sizes and avoid consuming excess calories. Plus, it’s like getting two meals for the price of one!
When requesting a doggy bag, make sure to ask for it at the beginning of your meal so that you can divide your food right away. You can also bring your own container if you prefer.
Remember, moderation is key when eating out healthily, and taking leftovers is an excellent strategy for maintaining a balanced diet while enjoying restaurant meals.
Use Small Plates and Bowls
Using smaller plates and bowls can help control portion sizes and avoid overeating. When dining out, it’s easy to get carried away with large portions served on big plates. Research shows that using smaller dinnerware can have a significant impact on how much we eat. By simply switching to smaller plates and bowls, you trick your brain into perceiving larger portions, which can lead to feeling more satisfied with less food.
This technique is known as the Delboeuf illusion. Studies have found that people tend to serve themselves around 22% less food when using small plates compared to larger ones. Additionally, using small plates encourages mindful eating by slowing down your pace and paying attention to each bite.
So next time you’re dining out, opt for a small plate or bowl and reap the benefits of portion control techniques for a healthier meal.
Indulge in Moderation
When it comes to indulging in treats, it’s important to allow yourself to enjoy them occasionally. Remember, moderation is key.
Focus on the overall balance of your diet and make sure you’re getting a variety of nutrients from different food groups.
Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, and eat until you feel satisfied, not overly stuffed.
By practicing these habits, you can still enjoy your favorite treats while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Allow Yourself to Enjoy Treats Occasionally
Indulge in treats occasionally to maintain a healthy eating routine. It’s important to allow yourself some room for enjoyment while still prioritizing your overall health goals.
Here are five tips to help you enjoy treats guilt-free and find healthier alternatives:
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Opt for dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and can satisfy your sweet tooth without the excessive sugar found in milk chocolate.
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Choose homemade desserts: By making your own treats, you have control over the ingredients used, allowing you to reduce added sugars and unhealthy fats.
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Share desserts with friends or family: Splitting a dessert allows you to satisfy your craving without consuming the whole portion.
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Try fruit-based desserts: Fruit offers natural sweetness and essential nutrients. Experiment with grilled peaches, baked apples, or mixed berry parfaits.
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Enjoy small portions mindfully: Rather than depriving yourself completely, savor a small serving of your favorite treat while being fully present in the moment.
By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can indulge occasionally without derailing your healthy eating habits.
Focus on the Overall Balance of Your Diet
To maintain a healthy and balanced diet, it’s important to prioritize the overall balance of your food choices. This means focusing on mindful eating and considering the nutritional value of each meal. Aim for a variety of foods from different food groups, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods high in added sugars and unhealthy fats.
When eating out, try to find restaurants that offer healthier options or dishes that are prepared with minimal processing and fewer additives. Look for menu items that include plenty of vegetables and lean proteins. You can also ask for modifications like substituting fries with a side salad or choosing grilled instead of fried options.
Remember that maintaining an overall balanced diet is about making informed choices most of the time while allowing yourself some flexibility to enjoy treats occasionally. By prioritizing the overall balance of your diet and practicing mindful eating habits, you can make healthier choices when dining out while still enjoying delicious meals.
Listen to Your Body’s Hunger and Fullness Cues
Now that you understand the importance of focusing on the overall balance of your diet when eating out, let’s dive into another crucial aspect: listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
Your body is a remarkable machine that knows exactly what it needs. By paying attention to hunger cues, you can avoid overeating or undereating, both of which can be detrimental to your health.
Before heading out for a meal, take a moment to assess your level of hunger. Are you genuinely hungry or just craving something?
Once at the restaurant, practice mindful eating by savoring each bite and taking breaks between mouthfuls. This allows time for your brain to receive signals from your stomach that it’s full. Remember, it takes about 20 minutes for these signals to reach your brain.
So slow down, listen to your body, and enjoy every nourishing bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still eat out while following a specific dietary restriction (e.g. gluten-free, vegan, etc.)?
Yes, you can still eat out while following a specific dietary restriction. Many popular restaurants offer gluten-free options and there are tips for dining out as a vegan. Look for menu items marked as gluten-free or ask the server for vegan options.
How can I determine the nutritional content of the dishes on the menu?
To determine the nutritional content of dishes on a menu and find healthy options, ask your server for information on ingredients, cooking methods, and portion sizes. You can also use smartphone apps or websites that provide nutrition information for popular restaurants.
Are there any hidden ingredients or added sugars that I should be aware of when ordering?
Watch out for hidden ingredients in popular restaurant dishes. To navigate a menu for healthy options, scan for keywords like "fried," "creamy," or "sugary." Ask the server about ingredient lists and opt for dishes with fresh, whole ingredients. Stay safe and enjoy your meal!
Is it possible to request smaller portion sizes or half portions?
You can absolutely request smaller portion sizes or half portions when eating out. Many restaurants are willing to accommodate custom orders. This is a great way to find healthier options and control your calorie intake.
How can I avoid overeating when dining out with friends or at social gatherings?
To avoid overeating when dining out or at social gatherings, focus on avoiding temptation by making mindful choices. Pay attention to portion sizes, listen to your body’s hunger cues, and opt for healthier options whenever possible.