Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Restaurant Eating 101

Going out to eat does not always have to break the calorie and fat budget for the day.  There are many secrets dieters all around should know before overindulging when they dine at a restaurant.

- Always ask the server to have the kitchen put the sauce or dressing on the side.  Sauces and dressing are high in fat and calories.  Instead of cutting out all sauce, ask for a side dish so you can enjoy a small amount without overdoing it.

- Swap out calorically high sides for lighter options. For example, instead of ordering a loaded baked potato, ask the server to substitute for a vegetable (hold the butter) or house salad (dressing on the side).

- Be wary of certain descriptors when reading the menu.  Words to avoid are crunchy, crispy, creamy, buttery, pan-fried, and the list goes on.

- Order a salad (dressing on the side) or light soup before your meal.  This will give digestion a jump start before your meal comes.  Restaurant meals are typically larger in portion size than is necessary, so you won't be hungry enough to finish the entire meal.

- Pack up half of your meal before you start eating so you don't finish the entire plate.

- Don't be afraid to ask the server for whatever it is you would like.


For further reading on how to combat international menus, visit Cooking Light's Menu Navigator.

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