Eat Healthier During Your Nights Out

When you're on a diet or you are just trying to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle

, you can find it a real challenge to eat out at your favorite restaurants or simply enjoy an evening out with friends or family.

Fortunately, many eateries are beginning to establish "lighter" menu items, but the truth about that is there are usually only three to five options in the low-calorie or low-carbohydrate section. It can be so frustrating. But you can still be savvy while enjoying a luxurious dinner if you know what to look for--and what to avoid!

These days, many dining establishments offer free appetizers, such as chips and salsa or rolls with butter. Avoid munching on these too much, as you will tack extra calories onto your meal that you don't need. If you are very hungry, it is okay to nibble, but use the butter sparingly or not at all.

On that note, you should avoid foods, including soups, that are dairy-based or contain a large dairy component. Cheese, butter, cream, and milk, while being high in protein, are also high in fat and are used generously in many restaurant dishes, making the calorie content soar.

If you decide to order a side salad--or select a salad as your main dish--beware of the dressing that accompanies it. Ask about lighter options instead of the traditional ranch or Caesar, and if there are none available, ask them to place your dressing in a cup on the side so that you can measure out how much of the condiment you would like on your salad.

Avoid fried foods. Instead, opt for menu items that are grilled, baked, or broiled. Instead of going for steak, take a peek at their seafood options. Fish is rich in Omega-3s, fatty acids that support brain development and have other benefits for the human body. Grilled salmon, halibut, and tuna are all fantastic options to keep in mind when you want a satisfying fish dish.

Skip the empty calories that accompany soda and alcohol. Cut the fluff from your bill and keep your overall meal healthier by drinking water.

Cut your portion sizes by sharing a meal with a friend or by asking them to box half the meal before they even serve it to you so you don't feel tempted to overeat. This might sound a little silly, but it really works!

If you are really concerned, you might want to scope out the menus of local restaurants before you decide on one for your evening out so you know what's available to you. If the options aren't satisfactory, keep searching!

by: Art Gib

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