You know the feeling: you go out to a restaurant, and you’re instantly overwhelmed by the amount of options on the menu. Your companions order a few appetizers for the table, and you might have a cocktail as well. You’re already a bit full when the meal arrives, but it’s so delicious that you can’t help but eat it anyway. Before you know it, you've eaten too much!
If you’re familiar with this situation, these helpful tips from the USDA can help you keep you on track:
- Set the tone by taking control of your beverages. Choose water or unsweetened iced tea instead of sugary beverages.
- Start your meal with a salad. This helps to avoid fried or fattening appetizers, gives you full serving of vegetables and keeps you from overdoing it once your meal comes.
- Ask for dressings or sauces on the side so that you can control the amount you consume.
- If portions are large, limit yourself by immediately putting half in a takeout box or sharing with a friend.
- Avoid dishes with words like “fried” or “sautéed” in favor of things like “steamed” or “grilled”.
- If you order a sandwich, ask for whole wheat bread instead of the usual white.
For more helpful tips for eating healthfully at restaurants, visit the USDA website.
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