HOW TO DINE OUT HEALTHY?

It’s impossible to keep yourself away from all those fancy restaurants opening every week and why should you even? For most of us dining out is a way to socialize and relax. But, not to forget that one meal poorly chosen can derail the hard work of months in a shot. So what to do?

The good news is that you can eat healthy even while eating out; each restaurant has healthy options, even fast-food chains for that matter.

Here are some key changes that you NEED to make while ordering which would keep you on track.

ZOMATO IT!

Yes, you read that right! Before you head to the restaurant, going through their menu and preselecting your options is a healthy way out. Choose wisely, like whole against refined for example, thin wheat crust vegetable pizza instead of a thick margherita one.

PORTIONS

Often, portions at restaurants re HUGE which are meant for 2-3 people. So, what you can do is either share it with your friends or take some parcel for home or order for small portions.

VEGGIE FRIENDLY

Substitute the French fries with French beans!

Replacing potatoes with something which would include more vegetables like broccoli, capsicum, tomatoes, leafy greens, etc. can be a great choice. Going with stir-fries, salads (with low-fat dressing), and soups can pose as good starters.

FOOD PREP

Keep the food preparation in mind and choose your order. Like ordering something that has been steamed, baked, grilled or broiled instead of fried. Going with idli over wada, grilled vegetable sandwich instead of a greasy burger, Lavash and hummus over cheese corn balls.

Don’t desert the Dessert!

Many of the nutritionists will not recommend you to reach till that course of meal, but you need to understand that not all are unhealthy. Look for fruit salads(with low fat cream),sorbets or even low fat frozen yogurts.

TIPS AND TRICKS:

•          Do not arrive hungry at the restaurant, eat something light from home.
•          Keep drinking water while eating which will send a message to your brain that you’re full.
•          Focus on more on the socializing part rather than the eating. Slow down the eating.