You may eat out a lot – many Americans do. People are looking for fast, easy, and good tasting foods to fit a busy lifestyle. Here are tips to help you eat healthy when ordering out.
- Review and compare nutrition information if it’s available. Menu terms that may indicate an item that is healthier include: baked, braised, broiled, grilled, poached, roasted and steamed.
- Think about your food choices for the entire day. If you’re planning a special restaurant meal in the evening, have a light breakfast and lunch.
- Hold the bread or chips until our meal is served. Hunger may drive you to fill up on these foods before your meal arrives.
- Begin with soup or salad as a way to include more vegetables at mealtime. Follow up with a light main course.
- Ask for sauces, dressings and toppings to be served “on the side”. Then you control how much you eat.
- Split our order. Share an extra-large sandwich or main course with a friend or take home for another meal.
- Boost the nutrition in all types of sandwiches by adding tomato, lettuce, peppers or other vegetables.
March is National Nutrition Month. Visit eatright.org for more helpful tips on Healthy Eating on the Run from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Take Charge. Live Well!