Restaurant Rules to Keep You Healthy
By Sara Butler
Going out to eat with friends and family is a social activity and in that way, it’s very good for you. Where it tends to go off the rails health-wise has to do with what you’re eating and how much. Dining out can be a bit of a minefield when you’re trying to stay healthy, but it can be done. Here are a few restaurant rules you need to follow in order to keep your social life and your health on track.
Eat Normal Throughout the Day
You may be tempted to restrict yourself during the day leading up to your big night out, but that may not be the best plan to follow. If you restrict the calories eaten during the day, then you may binge and eat more than you want when you go out to eat. So, the best plan is to eat as if it’s any other day and then have a moderate portion of food when you eat out. With this plan, you won’t feel hungry all day and feel as if you need to roll out of the restaurant when you’re done.
Check Out the Menu in Advance
Technology is a wonderful thing and the internet opens up the entire world to you. You can use it to watch unlimited cat videos all day every day and do a little detective work before you go out to eat because nearly every restaurant has their menu posted online. Decide what would be healthiest for you before you get there and then order that. Voila!
Make sure to avoid things described in the following ways:
- Buttery
- Creamy
- Crusted
- Fried
- Stuffed
- Cheesy
- Loaded
- Premium
Those are usually code for “this dish contains all the calories you should have in one day.”
Strive for Balance
A balanced plate is a healthy plate, so strive for a balance of non-starchy vegetables, a lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. This balance will promote a steady and slow digestion which will leave you feeling fuller for longer.
Ask for Modifications
A restaurant's entire business is tailored to serve you, the customer. So, don’t be afraid to ask for modifications when you’re ordering. If you don’t want butter, tell them. If you don’t want cheese, have them ax it. No matter the cuisine, it’s easy for the chef to make modifications. You’re paying for it, after all!
These suggestions can help you navigate the shark-infested restaurant waters when you’re trying to be healthy. Follow them and enjoy a night out with those in your life who bring you joy!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Northbrook, Ill.