Eating-Out Tips

Here's how to keep your diet on track in any restaurant

by Linda Gassenheimer

With many of our meals eaten out, it's hard to maintain a healthful lifestyle. Here are some eating-out tips that can help.

1. Have a snack beforehand: It may seem counterintuitive to have a small snack before going out to eat--after all, you may be going to a restaurant because you want to spend a night out of the kitchen or your cupboard is bare. However, going to a restaurant on an empty stomach is a recipe for disaster. Eat a small piece of low-fat cheese or a few whole wheat crackers before heading out the door, and you'll find it's far easier to make wise choices once you're looking at a big menu.

2. Don't go out for drinks on an empty stomach: Drinks are called aperitifs because they increase your appetite. One drink will make you hungry, and you will probably eat the first thing that you see. Also, if it's going to be a long cocktail hour, start with sparkling water or a diet drink before ordering a glass of wine or a drink.

3. Delay the bread: There's nothing wrong with enjoying the bread basket--the problem is that it's so hard to resist eating all of it at once. Ask for the bread basket to be brought to the table with the main course. This will keep you from nibbling while you wait for your order.

4. Order wisely: Instead of an appetizer and main course, opt for smaller portions by ordering two appetizers instead. Plan to share an entrée with your dining companion. Likewise, order one dessert and share it with the table. And when at fast-food restaurants, opt for the salads or grilled meat or fish. Ask for salad dressing on the side. Dip the salad into the dressing or spoon a tablespoon of it over the salad.

5. Start with a doggie bag: Often restaurant portions are so huge, it's easy to feel satisfied even if you only eat half of what is served. Ask for the doggie bag to arrive when your dinner is served so you can set some of your meal aside.

Link to Prevention article - Reprinted from Fit and Fast Meals in Minutes by Linda Gassenheimer © 2006. Permission granted by Rodale Books. Available at www.dinnerinminutes.com or wherever books are sold.