Healthy Tips for Dining Out

Dining out is a great way to enjoy time with friends and family. But, if you're not careful when you dine out, you can easily eat and drink well over 1,000 calories in one sitting!   However, with these simple strategies, you can eat out, enjoy your meal and have confidence that you are staying within your calorie range:   PLAN AHEAD Check the website and choose the healthiest option in advance. Look for items that are: baked, grilled, dry-sauteed, broiled, poached or steamed. BE PICKY Ask them to omit high calorie "extras" such as butter, cream, cheese, oil, croutons, etc. ON THE SIDE Request sauces and salad dressings be served on the side. SPLIT YOUR MEAL Share with a friend or ask the server to box half of it BEFORE bringing it to the table. DRINK WATER Save calories (and money!) by drinking plain or mineral water instead of alcohol, soda or juice.  EAT SLOWLY Enjoy your meal and your company!