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Choosing Healthy Meals Away from Home

With just a little effort, you CAN eat out and eat healthy too. Many restaurants now offer tasty low-fat, low-cholesterol meals. Eating less fat (especially saturated fat) and cholesterol is important for good health.

Watching portion sizes is also something to keep in mind when eating out. Often menu items actually contain multiple servings of the food. For example, a large potato would count as two servings.

Here are some tips for healthier meals on the go:

Choose steamed, broiled, baked, grilled, or roasted foods; avoid fried, basted, braised, au gratin, pan-fried, and stuffed foods, which are typically high in fat.
Smoked, pickled, soy, or teriyaki sauces are high in sodium. Try to steer clear of these.
Many restaurants provide a "healthy choice" option, which may be indicated right on the menu.
Ask your server about substituting a house salad in place of fries or other fattening side dishes.
Get sauces, toppings, and dressing on the side.
Order a lunch portion entree, or if the serving size of your meal is large, ask for a to-go box when your food arrives. Place half in the box; this tip will help prevent you from over eating.

For more ideas:
www.eatright.org

The College Student's Handbook to Better Nutrition

Page last modified September 14, 2010