5 Healthy Restaurant Dining Tips
By Brandi Goodman
Eating healthy at home may seem a lot easier than doing so in a restaurant setting. With so many food options on the menu, it can be tough to stick with a nutritional choice. With some tips in mind, you can make your restaurant dining experience much healthier and beneficial for your body.
Select Water as Your Drink of Choice
Don't opt for a sugary beverage. Instead, select water as your drink of choice. It will save you money and help you eat less. The more you fill up on water, the less you're likely to eat. It also aids in digestion, which is beneficial when you're eating a large meal.
Get a Meal for Two
If you're eating with another person, such as your spouse or even a friend, you can get one meal and split it between the two of you. This will help you save on costs as well, and ensure you're eating less. You don't need to spend on a large meal that you won't even finish if you can just get a large portion of an entree and split it between two people instead.
Add a Fruit or Veggie to the Side
French fries and onion rings make common restaurant side dishes. Skip these fried foods that are fattening and add a fruit or veggie to the side instead. They may have steamed broccoli or a mixture of fruit as a side dish option. Choose that for a more nutritious option.
Request Whole Grains
If you're ordering toast at breakfast or a burger with a bun at dinner, you can request that a whole grain option be used. You don't have to stick with the common white bread that's less healthy for you. Most restaurants will have at least a couple of bread choices, if not more, so you can make a healthier selection.
Ask for the Nutrition Facts
Some menus have the nutrition facts listed right on them. When you can't seem to spot them, just ask. The waiter may be able to inform you about them, or they can go in the back and look for the facts of the particular meal you're wanting to order.
Dining at a restaurant can feel overwhelming when you're trying to stay healthy. Rest assured that with these tricks in mind, and by searching for the healthiest menu items, you can still stick to your nutritional eating plan. Enjoy a night out without the worry.
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