10 Tips for eating out at restaurants

When dining out at restaurants, it’s easy to let indulgence take over, but with a little planning, you can enjoy your meal without compromising your health goals or breaking the bank. Whether you’re navigating a fine-dining menu, grabbing a quick bite, or celebrating a special occasion, making mindful choices can enhance your experience. From balancing your plate to decoding hidden menu pitfalls, these tips will help you savor every bite while staying true to your lifestyle and preferences.

Here are 10 essential tips to make eating out both enjoyable and guilt-free!

1 | Eat a small meal one hour before you eat in a restaurant.
This will help prevent overeating and will help you choose the best options. If you go to a restaurant when you are starving, you may not make the healthiest choices. For example, drink a serving size of whey protein and some fruit before dining out.

I remember as a teen, my dad took my brother and I for a sandwich before we went out to a sushi restaurant. Smart papa.

2 | Order a salad.
Start with a salad with greens and tomatoes and skip the dressing. You can add some vinegar and small portion of olive oil. Some fat-free dressings are loaded with sodium, sugar etc.

3 | Drink water.
Drink a glass of water before you order your meal. Sometimes we are really thirsty when we think we’re hungry!

4 | Order a lean protein.
Order chicken, lean meats, fish without dressings— just plain. Select lean cuts that are grilled, steamed or baked, and skip heavy, creamy sauces. These just add unnecessary calories!

5 | Check the portions.
You can share or just box up half of the meal. Some restaurants serve big portions. A good rule to follow is that the lean protein of choice should be about the same size and thickness as the palm of your hand.

6 | Lean protein and salad.
Order the lean protein and salad and try to skip the starches. Don’t eat the bread, the croutons, potatoes or white rice. Consume heavier carbs in your pre and post-workout meals— not in your dinner.

7 | Eat slowly.
The more you chew on your food, the easier it will be for your body to digest it. This way, you will feel fuller and more satisfied with less food.

8 | Fruit for dessert.
Finish your meal with berries! Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries can be a good and delicious dessert and will add some healthy carbs to your meal.

9 | Coffee.
Order a coffee if you feel that you need a sugar treat and add some stevia. Coffee helps aid digestion after your meal.

10 | Enjoy your meal.
Relax and enjoy your meal without guilty thoughts. Eating in a restaurant can be healthy and delicious— you just make sure you make smart choices.