Eating out has become a favorite past time in America. An estimated 29 percent of meals are eaten away from the home, compared with 16 percent in 1977. Americans are also getting fatter with a record two-thirds of the population being overweight or obese. Don’t want to follow in their footsteps, but still enjoy eating out? Here are some tips on how to eat healthy in a not-so-healthy restaurant.
Most places will bring a basket of bread and calorie-laden butter to the table before the meal is even served. If you don’t want to blow all your calories, request that the bread basket not even be brought to the table just focus on the conversation.
Another good idea is to ask what kind of oil they cook their food in. Many restaurants use trans fats, which can be dangerous to the heart and the waistline. Some meals contain up to 10 grams of trans fats, or even more. This translates into clogged arteries and heart disease. Trans fats also store belly fat preferentially. Ask the waiter if they use partially hydrogenated fats. If so, order a salad or some baked chicken or fish.
Stay away from dishes cooked with butter or heavy cream sauce. Instead, ask that this be brought on the side, so that you can monitor how much you are eating.
Finally, always say no to sugary desserts they can pack a whopping 1,000 calories or more! Order one to split with the table, or some fresh fruit. When the meal is over, you’ll be glad that you didn’t spend a day’s worth of calories and enjoyed a heart-healthy meal.
