Healthy Eating on the Run Series - Tip 1

Heathy Eating on the Run Series: Tip One

Restaurant eating is like a minefield of unhealthy choices. Huge portions, loads of salt, and unlimited amounts of butter are just a few of those explosive mines that can kill your healthy eating plan. It is so easy to make the wrong choice when ordering from a restaurant, of any kind. But, there is hope. Over the next few weeks, I will be breaking down my tips for eating healthier on the run.

As I tell all my clients, my number one tip when going out to a restaurant is to look at the menu ahead of time. One of the many benefits of the internet is that almost every restaurant has their menu available online. If you know where you are going to eat, take the time to read the menu and decide what to order ahead of time. I suggest doing this when you are not hungry. It makes a big difference. If you arrive at the restaurant ravenous, temptation is going to take over. Most likely, you will make an unhealthy menu choice and overeat. Take action ahead of time. Set in your mind your healthy choice and don’t even look at the menu when you get to the restaurant.

While you read the menu over, take a look at whole menu. We are creatures of habit so I’m sure you can relate to this. We tend to open menus, go to our favorite section, and look for the same foods over and over again. Oftentimes, you can find healthy dishes and options on a menu; you just have to get out of your comfort zone. Look for healthy sections of the menu, side dish options, and appetizers. Pairing a smaller appetizer with a side dish like steamed vegetables can be a great option compared to a huge meal.

So next time you look at a menu, read it cover to cover. And, make sure you do that before you get to the restaurant.