by Danelle Karth

Created on: September 10, 2010

Eating out is easy. After all, you go somewhere, you eat, and you don't have to cook or clean up after you are done. This can be a very helpful thing, but most food served at restaurants isn't very healthy for us and regular eating out can do horrible things to your waistline, your cholesterol, and other elements of your health. Knowing how to eat better will go a long way in helping you live a better life when you do eat out. 

Whenever possible plan ahead.

Whether you are going out to a fancy steakhouse or eating at a fast food restaurant you can go a long way if you plan ahead. If the site has a website then you are likely to be able to find out a menu and maybe even nutritional information. You can use these items to make choices while you are at home and not hungry. This will allow you the most control over your meal.

Eat a snack.

Most people on a diet learn that snacks are bad for you, however they can really save you a lot of damage when you go out to eat. You want to have a light and healthy snack about 30 minutes before you go out to eat. This will make it so that you are feeling really hungry when it comes time to order.

Start with your drink.

The first thing you will be asked to order is your drink. Your best choice is to choose water. Add a slice of lemon if you are feeling the need for some flavor. This service is free and the water will be free of calories. If water isn't something you can do then choose coffee or tea without sugar or cream. These drinks are low in calories and will help you stay on course for a healthy meal. It should be noted that diet sodas are low in calories, but that research shows the sweeteners used to make them sweet cause sugar and carb cravings.

Eat less.

Often times eating out gives you a great option for over eating. If you are eating at a fast food restaurant then your best bet is to avoid super sizing anything and to make sure that you are eating small portions of everything. If you are actually eating out at a nice restaurant ask for a box before your food comes. When your food gets there put half of it away for later. This will make it easier for you to eat less.

Enjoy your food.

Many of us eat so fast that we avoid savoring and enjoying our food. This can lead to poor digestion as well as over eating. Neither thing is good for you. So, slow down. Take your time eating your meal and you will enjoy it more and you are less likely to eat too much food. This in turn makes it easier for you to enjoy the rest of

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