Eating out is always fun. It can be rewarding. Not only is it delicious, but you avoid having to prep and cook a meal yourself. However, eating out often can add up over time. The number of calories, sugar, and fat can add up and cause you to gain weight. If you are off staying in one of the many hotels in the Lake District and looking to have a fun but healthy break here are some of the best tips you can use to make eating out healthier and more affordable.
Keeping Your Portions Under Control
1. Keep It Small
One of the main things you want to do when you are eating out at fast food places and restaurants is to keep your portions small. You can generally do this by asking for half-portions. Or, you can share a meal with one of your family or friends or pack some of it to take home.
2. Divide The Dessert
If you are someone that gets dessert at restaurants, you’ll want to avoid eating it all yourself. If you love desserts and cannot say no” to them, try to split them with a loved one.
3. Avoid Getting Your Meal Super-Sized
While supersizing your meal may seem like a good idea because it’s only a little bit more in price, it’s not going to be good for your waistline. You’re only going to be taking in more and more unhealthy foods and excess calories in the process.
Make Healthier Choices:
4. Ask For Vegetables
Typically, you can make substitutions when you are eating out. When possible, try to substitute empty calorie carbohydrates like french fries and potatoes for vegetables and leafy greens. Order sides that are healthy for you instead of the sides that add more calories and fats to your diet.
5. Opt For Whole Grains
It’s always a good idea to swap your white bread for whole grains. This is a good option even for white rice. Instead, opt for brown rice. A lot of restaurants will offer whole grain alternatives whether you are getting a sub or pizza.
6. Avoid Sodium
Try to avoid foods that are too high in sodium. Ideally, you want to avoid foods that have sky-high sodium content like soy sauce. Instead, ask for low-sodium alternatives. You should take a look at the nutritional content whenever you are about to eat out.
7. Get The Sauce On The Side
Ask for the condiments and sauces on the side. This is always a good way to limit the calorific content of your meal and avoid too much sodium. You will be in control over how much sauce is used.
8. Skip The Beverages
When eating out, not only are beverages going to add more empty calories, but they can add a lot to the bill. Try to avoid these drinks entirely and order water. You can always ask for a lemon if you want more flavor. If you need something more, try sparkling water.
Stay Informed:
9. Ask How The Food Is Prepared
When you are about to order a dish, ask how it’s prepared. The wait staff should be able to tell you how it’s prepared and you can make a more informed decision on whether or not you want to order it. For instance, is the food steamed or fried? When food is fried, calories and fat can add up quickly.
10. Look Ahead
Always try to look at the restaurant’s menu beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to tell what the healthy options are. This can keep you from feeling rushed at the restaurant when you are going through the nutritional content of the various meals.