Eating out can be fun but is not always good for our waistline. Hidden calories, larger portions, and appetizers cause us to consume more calories than when we eat at home.
Thankfully, there are tricks to eliminate extra calories that could make us feel bloated the next day. Learn how to eat right at restaurants to make it easier to stick to your healthy eating plan.
Put Your Fork Down Between Bites
Slow down when you eat! It takes 20 minutes for your body to tell your mind that you are full. If you put your fork between bites and enjoy the company then your body will have the chance to communicate that it is full. Therefore, you will not consume excess calories.
Immediately Split the Meal in Half
Restaurant portions are often larger than servings at home. A large portion can make your Spring Chicken Salad into a 1,000 calorie dish rather than the light meal that you are looking for. Split the meal when you receive the dish to avoid consuming excess calories.
Avoid Dips
When you are looking for an appetizer, dips can be a great choice to share among a group. However, dips are often loaded with dairy that is high in fat. Most dips are also eaten with crackers and chips which contains carbs, salt, and sugar.
Order roasted vegetables, shrimp cocktail, or a side salad with balsamiq dressing if you are craving an appetizer.
Choose the Healthy Sides
French fries are delicious but can also be a calorie nightmare. Most restaurants will offer steamed vegetables, a side salad, or baked potato as a healthy side. The substitute may cost you an extra dollar or two but your waistband will appreciate it.
Check the Menu Before You Go
Most restaurant menus are offered online. Check out the menu before you go to see if there are healthy options. Reviewing the menu is also recommended if you have food allergies.
Look for High Protein Dishes
Protein dense foods have a number of health benefits. Protein helps stabilize your blood sugar, boosts energy level, and supports your muscles and bones to absorb nutrients. A protein dense meal can also increase feelings of fullness quicker.
Order dishes high in protein at a restaurant to achieve fullness without consuming as many calories. Protein does not only have to be obtained through meats. Black beans, almonds and Greek yogurt are meatless supplies of protein.
Stick to Water
Soda, juice, or beer can seem like the perfect addition to your salmon and broccoli. However, beverages usually have very little nutritional value.
Bored with water? Add lime or use soda water.
If your conscious of calories than you are going to have to play it smart! Follow this guide and you could find yourself feeling light the morning after dining out for dinner.
Still need help? Speak with a Fitness 1440 Personal Trainer. We are here for you!