Make the Best Food Choices at Restaurants with These Tips

Dining out can be tough when you are trying to lose weight, so it’s important to look at the best food choices at restaurants. Sure, you may go in with the very best of intentions, but just one look at some of the more tempting foods and intentions can quickly evaporate. Though eating out while trying to lose weight requires added willpower, it also requires that you do your homework in advance. You want to pick restaurants that offer some healthier options. You should also know the foods you can select from before you enter. Heading in with a sound plan of attack can help you to make better food choices at restaurants. If you can do your homework, develop a solid plan, and remain dedicated, then you can dine out without fear. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

Don’t Be Afraid to Order Things the Way You Want Them

If you are looking for better food choices at restaurants, the first thing to focus on is ordering your meal the way that you want it. Don’t be afraid to ask your waiter or waitress to have the cooks leave certain elements out, add alternative ingredients to your meal, or even bring you out only a half portion. Packing half of the meal to gois a great way to manage proper portion control. Restaurants are accustomed to requests for dressing on the side or for simple substitutions. This is your healthy eating plan, so don’t be afraid to speak up!

Look for Healthy Clues

Another thing to consider as you work to make better food choices at restaurants is to focus in on healthier cooking methods. Anything that is baked, broiled, or grilled is usually okay. A marinara sauce or anything based upon vegetables is always healthier fare. Stay away from the fried foods or those that have a cream or heavy sauce as such dishes will work against you. Focus on the healthier key words and you can’t go far astray.

Make the Right Substitutions and Incorporate the Right Ingredients

One final consideration in how to make better food choices at restaurants is to incorporate the healthy substitute ingredients. Substituting other vegetables for potatoes, using oil and vinegar instead of dressing, asking for sauce on the side, or even asking for a different cooking method can all work well. You do need to be mindful of the preparation method and what is included with the meal; but if you are diligent and dedicated, then you can dine out without fear!