Are you tired of feeling guilty every time you dine out because you know deep down you could have made a better food choice? Well, worry no more because we are here to help you stay on track with your healthy eating habits while dining out. Here are some expert tips and suggestions for you to try!

🥗Check the Menu Online Beforehand🥗

One great way to make sure you choose the healthiest option at a restaurant is to check their menu beforehand. This way, you can consider your options and plan ahead. Look for menu items that are grilled, roasted, or baked instead of fried. Avoid dishes that are described as “creamy” or “cheesy” and opt for salads, steamed vegetables, and lean protein options such as chicken, fish, or tofu.

A photo of a laptop or mobile phone with a restaurant menu showing on the screen

🍜Pay Attention to Portion Sizes🍜

Most restaurants nowadays serve larger portion sizes than necessary, leading to weight gain and a feeling of lethargy after meals. To combat overeating, ask for smaller portion sizes or share meals with a friend to share the calories. Another option is to ask the waiter or waitress to pack half of your meal in a takeout box before serving it to you. This will help you practice mindful eating and help you resist the temptation to overeat.

A photo of a half-empty plate

🥤Drink Water or Unsweetened Beverages🥤

One of the easiest ways to consume lots of calories while dining out is to drink sugary drinks such as soda, lemonade, or sweetened teas. Instead, ask for water or unsweetened drinks. If you want something with a bit more flavor, opt for a sparkling water or add a slice of lemon or lime to your water.

A photo of a water bottle or a glass of water with a slice of fruit in it

🍽️Avoid Bread Baskets and Free Appetizers🍽️

Bread baskets and free appetizers, while tempting, can add unwanted calories to your meal. It’s easy to consume hundreds of calories before you even get to the main course. Instead, politely decline or ask the server to remove them from the table.

A photo of bread on a plate with a "no" symbol on it

🍫Limit Desserts or Share Them🍫

We all have a sweet tooth, but eating desserts on a regular basis can take a toll on our health. If you’re craving something sweet, share it with your dining companion(s) or choose a small dessert portion. You can also look for healthier dessert options such as fruit sorbets or a fresh fruit platter.

A photo of a small dessert or a fruit platter

🤔In Conclusion: Make the Best Choices Possible🤔

Eating healthy while dining out can seem overwhelming, but with careful planning, portion control, and smart food choices, you can still eat well and enjoy yourself. Remember that it’s okay to indulge in your favorite foods every now and then, but make the best choices possible whenever you can.

A photo of a person enjoying a healthy meal with a smile on their face

We hope these tips and suggestions help you next time you dine out, be sure to comment below and share your favorite tips for healthy eating while in a restaurant!

A photo of a group of friends enjoying a healthy meal together