As someone who has struggled with maintaining a healthy diet while eating out, I know the struggle all too well. From temptations to portion sizes, eating out can be a real challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! By following some simple tips and tricks, you can enjoy eating out without sacrificing your healthy diet.

Do Your Research 📖

Researching the restaurant beforehand can give you an idea of what to expect and help you make an informed decision about what to eat. Check out their menu online to determine what healthy options they have. Some restaurants even have nutrition information available, which can be really helpful in choosing the right dish. Don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask questions about their menu either.

A person on their phone looking up a restaurant's menu

Control Your Portions 🍽️

Portion sizes can be a huge obstacle when it comes to eating out. Many restaurants serve portions that are much larger than what is necessary. To combat this, try sharing a dish with a friend or ask for a to-go box at the beginning of your meal to portion out half of your entree. You can also opt for a smaller dish or order a side salad as your main course.

A person splitting a dish with a friend

Choose Wisely 🥗

When it comes to making healthy choices, it’s important to pay attention to what you are ordering. Choosing dishes that are grilled, baked, or roasted instead of fried is a good option. Also, be aware of the sauces and dressings that come with your dish, as they can add unnecessary calories and sugar. Opt for salsa or vinegar-based dressings over creamy ones.

A person looking at a menu with a salad option

Listen to Your Body 🧘

One of the most important things when eating out is listening to your body. Eat slowly and savor your food, paying attention to when you start to feel full. It’s okay to leave some food on your plate if you are feeling full. Remember, you can always take the leftovers home with you. Don’t let the fear of wasting food be a reason to overeat!

A person sitting back in their chair after finishing their meal

Indulge Once in a While 🍔

It’s okay to indulge in your favorite foods once in a while, but it’s all about moderation. If you really want to try something that’s not necessarily healthy, just make sure you balance it out with healthier choices throughout the day. Don’t beat yourself up over it either. It’s all about balance and occasional indulgences can actually help you stick to your healthy diet in the long run.

A person holding a burger with a smile on their face

Remember, eating healthy while eating out is all about balance and making informed choices. By doing your research, controlling your portions, making wise choices, listening to your body, and indulging once in a while, you can enjoy eating out without sacrificing your healthy diet.

A plate with a variety of healthy foods on it