Eating out at a restaurant can be a fun and enjoyable experience, but it can also be a challenge for those trying to maintain a healthy diet. With so many tempting options on the menu, it can be difficult to make healthy choices.

It is possible to make healthier food choices and still enjoy the taste of the menu by learning how to navigate it.  Here are some tips for making healthy choices at restaurants.

• Plan Ahead

Prior to visiting a restaurant, careful planning is necessary. Look up the menu online and decide what you want to order before arriving at the restaurant. This will help you avoid making impulsive decisions and choosing unhealthy options.

• Choose Grilled or Baked Options

Grilled options are a great choice because they are typically cooked without added oils or fats, making them a healthier alternative to fried foods. Both grilled chicken and fish can be superb choices as they are rich in vital nutrients and protein.

Baked meals usually consist of veggies and low-fat proteins, which make them both wholesome and satisfying. There are a few examples of baked entrees, such as roasted vegetables alongside baked salmon, or sweet potato wedges paired with baked chicken. By choosing grilled or baked options, you can enjoy a delicious meal while still making healthy choices at restaurants.

• Ask for Dressings and Sauces on the Side

Many salads and dishes come with dressings and sauces that are high in calories and fat. To avoid consuming excess calories, ask for dressings and sauces on the side. In this manner, you can regulate the amount you utilize.

• Choose Lean Proteins

Opt for grilled chicken, fish, or lean cuts of beef such as sirloin or tenderloin. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, look for plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or legumes. When ordering, pay attention to how the protein is prepared. Avoid fried or breaded options and instead choose grilled, baked, or steamed dishes. You can also ask for your protein to be cooked without added oils or butter to further reduce calorie and fat intake. By choosing lean proteins, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal while still making healthy choices.

• Avoid Creamy Soups and Sauces

Instead of opting for creamy soups and sauces, look for options that are lighter and healthier. Vegetable-based soups, such as minestrone or tomato soup, are often lower in calories and fat. Similarly, tomato-based sauces or vinaigrettes can be a healthier option than cream-based sauces. You can also ask your server to have your dish prepared with less sauce or to have the sauce served on the side so that you can control how much you consume. By making these small adjustments, you can still enjoy a delicious meal while making healthier choices.

• Choose Whole Grains

When choosing sides or bread, opt for whole grains such as brown rice or whole wheat bread instead of white rice or white bread. Whole grains are higher in fiber and can help you feel fuller for longer.

• Share Your Meal

Restaurant portions are often much larger than what you would eat at home. To avoid overeating, consider sharing your meal with a friend or taking half of it home for later.

• Choose Water or Unsweetened Beverages

Many beverages at restaurants are high in sugar and calories. To avoid consuming excess calories, choose water or unsweetened beverages such as tea or coffee.

• Avoid Fried Appetizers

Fried appetizers such as mozzarella sticks or onion rings are high in calories and fat. Instead, opt for a salad or vegetable-based appetizer.

• Don’t Skip Dessert

If you want to indulge in dessert, choose a small portion or share it with a friend. Alternatively, opt for a fruit-based dessert such as sorbet or fruit salad.

Making healthy choices at a restaurant can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. One can uphold a balanced diet while eating out by adhering to the suggested guidelines, such as previewing the menu in advance, opting for grilled or baked dishes, and paying attention to serving sizes.

It is important to remember that making healthy choices is a lifestyle, and it takes time and effort to develop healthy habits. By consistently making conscious decisions about what you eat, you can improve your overall health and well-being. So, the next time you dine out, don’t be afraid to ask for modifications or substitutions and remember to enjoy your meal in moderation. Do follow these guidelines to help you in making healthy choices at restaurants.

Want to check the menu of a restaurant to plan ahead? Or are you tired of going out and will you just order in? Visit Swiggy and decide what you will have in advance, or just place the order and eat in the comfort of your home!