3 Simple Steps To Make Dinning Out Healthier
Make Healthier Choices at Restaurants
The hardest part about eating at a restaurant is that you don't always have access to the macros, so you don't know what exactly you're putting in your body. I have a three-step system that will help you eat healthy when you're at a restaurant.
Step One: Choose Your Protein First
I know the pasta menu tempts you, but if you want to stick to your health goals, you need to skip it for now! Instead, head over to the meats section and look for lean meat cuts. Chicken and turkey are both great options. Pork chops are another a great lean cut.
Pay attention to how the meat is prepared. Opt for grilled or baked meats instead of deep-fried foods. Also, be aware of pan-fried meats that are prepared in a lot of butter or oils.
Step Two: Pick Your Sides Wisely
Most restaurants give you options for your side dishes and you'll probably be drawn toward fries or mashed potatoes smothered in gravy, but if you want to eat healthy while you're traveling, then you need to check the list for healthier side dishes.
A side salad is always a great option, but make sure you have healthy dressing options as well. Better yet, ask for avocado on the side and use that as a dressing.
Steamed vegetables are another excellent option. Don't be afraid to ask for double, or even triple, the veggies. The more vegetables you eat, the better off you'll be.
Step Three: Omit Oils and Sauces
A lot of the fats and carbohydrates in food come from excess oils and sauces. You can eliminate a lot of those by asking the chef to go light or omit the oil.
Sauces are a whole other beast. Most sauces are based in fatty foods, like cream. Which means you're getting a lot of calories without a lot of nutrients. If you must have something that comes with a sauce ask for it on the side. That way you can still enjoy it but only a small amount.
Remember, when you're at a restaurant you can make special requests! Ask to have things prepared how you need them. It's another trick that will help you eat healthy while traveling!