So, you want to take your family out to eat but you're also trying to stick to your post pregnancy healthy-eating plan? Luckily, many restaurants make it easier these days with healthier meal options, but some don't. Figuring out how to eat healthy at restaurants can be tricky sometimes, so here are some tips to help you out:
1. Plan Ahead. If you have a computer at home, before heading to the restaurant, check to see if they have a menu online that contains nutritional information on their meals. If so, plan your healthier meal before you even get to the restaurant! That way too, you won't even have to look at the menu to get tempted by other not-so-healthy meals.
2. Customize. You may need to make changes to your order to make it healthier for you... and that's okay! An example of this is pizza; to keep it on the healthier side, if possible, order a multigrain crust, thin crust and with healthy toppings and stick to no more than 2 slices. If still hungry, order a side salad.
3. Preparation. When it comes to how to eat healthy at restaurants post pregnancy, the way your food is prepared is important. Choose foods that are baked, steamed, grilled or broiled as opposed to deep-fried. You'll also want to avoid foods that come breaded.
4. Sauces. Try to stay away from white and/or creamy types of sauces. It is best to stick to tomato-based sauces instead. Most marinara sauces have less calories and fat than white/creamy types.
5. Sides. Many meals in restaurants come with a side item, so when choosing your side, you'll want to avoid foods such as fries. Instead, opt for a salad, vegetables, fruit or soup (vegetable or tomato based soups are healthier options).
6. Extras. When wanting to know how to eat healthy in restaurants post pregnancy, you also want to think about all the add-ons that may come with your meal. Some examples are gravies, mayonnaise, butter, hollandaise, dips, etc. To keep it healthy, you'll want to avoid these things.
7. Portions. Most restaurants nowadays serve meal portions that are too big for one person so we tend to overeat because of this. Some ways to avoid this are to share a meal with a friend or family member (your child), or take half of your meal "to go" and then you have a lunch for the next day! You can also just order an appetizer to cut down on portion.
8. Dressing. If having a salad, ask for your dressing on the side just to make sure your salad doesn't get drenched in it. When choosing your dressing, ask if there is a low fat/low calorie option, and if not, it is best to choose a vinaigrette type rather than a creamy type of dressing.
9. Drinks. Drinks such as soda, juice, alcohol and any other kind of sugary drink are just empty calories so it is best to avoid these while eating out. It's a good idea to stick to things like water (add a lemon to flavor it), tea or low fat milk. If you must indulge, stick to diet soda or 100% juice.
10. Desserts. A final way on how to eat healthy at restaurants post pregnancy is to avoid the dessert menu! It is best to opt for a healthy dessert when you get home. A healthier option can be something like frozen yogurt and fresh or frozen berries (yum!).
By following these 10 "rules" on how to eat healthy at restaurants, you will be shedding those post pregnancy pounds in no time. Also remember that it is always best to eat at home, preparing your meals yourself so that you can control what goes into your meals (i.e. amount of sodium, sugar, etc.). It is best to keep eating out at restaurants as a special treat every once in a while.
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