Eating out - 8 lighter options

Written by Catherine Saxelby on Monday, 16 March 2009.
Tagged: eating out, guides, healthy eating, weight loss

Eating out - 8 lighter options
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Everyone loves a dinner out, but these days with big portion sizes and high-fat fare, it's an opportunity to overindulge. Chefs love to add cream or butter to just about every dish and give us "value for money" with jumbo-size dinners. Haven't you got through your entrée already feeling full before the main arrives?

Put into practice my 8 eating-out suggestions to help you eat lighter with less fat.

  • Avoid high fat starters such as pate or anything deep fried - opt for soup, a rocket salad, prawns, scallops or smoked salmon.
  • When you order, don't be afraid to ask for your vegetables served without butter or your main with sauce on the side.
  • Order fish and seafood as often as you can - restaurants cook them well and it saves you cooking it at home if you find fish difficult or smelly.
  • Vegetarian options are not always light and low - steer clear of dishes with melted cheese toppings or with lots of coconut like tofu laksa.
  • You don't have to miss out on dessert if you choose wisely. Fruit based puddings, sorbets and meringues are delicious heart healthy choices. Or if you want a richer offering, share dessert with a friend.
  • Eat small. Order two entrees or share an entrée and then enjoy your main. Ask for a ‘doggie bag' if you can't finish everything at one sitting.
  • Eat slowly and enjoy the conversation. Try not to overeat.
  • Watch your alcohol intake. Enjoy a drink or two but sip slowly and intersperse with a mineral water or diet soft drink.