Eating out serves up delicious and healthy food into your day
For many people, eating out is an essential part of the day. It’s a way to save time by sparing you from hours spent in the kitchen and can double as a nice break in the middle of the workday. On the weekends, eating can be something to look forward to as it provides a nice break and a relaxed atmosphere to spend time with family and friends.
While eating out may provide a convenience factor and an enjoyable setting, it’s not all positive. The downside to dining out is that most restaurants go overboard on the portions, resulting in high calories and fat content. Even the seemingly healthy dishes might not be as healthy as you think.
The good news is that there are some quick and easy tricks that can make your next dining experience a healthier one. Here are five we recommend:
1. Take half to go. As soon as you place your order, ask for a to-go container. When your food arrives, immediately place half your plate in the container to take home. This will ensure that you are eating a more realistic portion, and you will have lunch or dinner the next day.
2. Look for healthy buzzwords. When perusing the menu, identify healthier dishes by looking for items that are described as grilled, baked, broiled, roasted or steamed. Stay away from anything that is breaded, fried, creamy or crispy.
3. Dressing on the side. This is an easy one and a tactic that will save you hundreds of calories. Most restaurants tend to go way overboard on the portion of salad dressing, but requesting it on the side will allow you to control the amount. Opt for dressings that are lighter, such as a vinaigrette.
4. Choose your beverage carefully. All those delicious cocktails and fruity drinks might seem delicious, but they are loaded with sugar and calories. For example, a small lemonade at Olive Garden has 49 grams of sugar, which contains more than your daily recommended value by itself—yikes. Water and seltzer are always a great choice.
5. Do your homework. This is a great tip and an easy one to implement, especially when traveling. Check the menu out before you arrive. This way you have a game plan before you arrive, ensuring that you won’t be swayed by any last-minute temptations.
Jason DeHenzel has trained some of New York’s most prestigious clients, including high-profile lawyers, advertising executives, movie producers and musicians. Sophie DeHenzel is a Pn1-certified nutritionist and former downhill ski racer. The pair founded DeHenzel Training Systems, a 2015 Home-Based Business of the Year from the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce. DeHenzel Training Systems develops customized fitness plans for clients of different abilities, experience and commitment. Find out more at dtsnova.com.
