Preparing and cooking meals at home allow one to have control over ingredients, taste and calories. However, once you venture out to the different restaurants, that is entirely a different story. Everyone wants to be able to eat a delicious meal without derailing or sabotaging their healthy diet. One of the fundamental things to remember is have moderation in your choices. Now-a-days, some restaurants provide information in regards to the calorie content of each meal.

Dining out is a challenge; however if you cognizant of your choices and what to avoid on the menus, then you are able enjoy a sumptuous and healthy meal without feeling guilty in the aftermath. Some of the tips one needs to be aware in respect of eating healthy when out at restaurants are as follows:

HIDDEN SODIUM

Salt should enhance the flavor of a dish. Unfortunately, many restaurants overuse this ingredient hidden in certain dishes. You can have some form of control by reducing the use of condments like ketchup, mustard, pickles and some sauces. Do request that your food be prepared without added salt, MSG, or any other salt laden seasoning. Instead of salty appetizers, try snacking on fruits. Opt for a green salad instead of soup.

SATURATED FATS

One can reduce the saturated fats in meals by chosing to a fish meal like broiled, grilled or baked salmon. This is very low in saturated fats and will provide the much needed omega fatty acids for the heart. Trim the excess fat from your order of meat. You can request the chef to prepare your meal with olive oil that is heart healthy. Do avoid meals that are fried. Instead, choose steamed, grilled, broiled, etc. Have your salad dressing on the side. Try vinegar and olive oil instead of the creamy dressings. Do avoid toppings of cheese, eggs, and meats, and bacon bits on your salad.

CUT BACK ON SUGAR

Choose fresh fruits as dessert instead of cakes, pies and ice cream. Substitute mixed drinks for a light wine which consist of less sugar and calories.

OVERSIZED MEALS

It is widespread. More and more restaurants are supersizing their meals. One way to skip this is to immediately cut your meal in half and take home the other portion. Another option would be to share with a pal. By all means, avoid the appetizers, breads, muffins, garlic sticks and rolls. Otherwise, by the entree arrives, you will be too "stuffed" to enjoy.

Once armed with these tips and others, one can make healthy and sensible choices when dining out at restaurants. Moreover, it will become second nature, and the experience will be enjoyable at each visit.

Learn more about this author, Betty Blake.
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