Dining Out: Avoid Mistakes

Aired on Lifetime Television
August 17 and October 5, 2008
Show 520

We all love to eat out. But how do you navigate a restaurant menu while sticking to your healthy eating plan? It might seem counterintuitive to eat before you eat—but try having a snack before you go out. Munching on some fresh veggies that are packed with fiber will help tide you over and control your cravings. Don't panic when the bread basket arrives. If you're just dying for piece, go ahead. To balance it out, when you order your meal, choose a dish that's filled with lean protein and veggies, since you've already had some starch. Can't imagine sitting down for a meal without a nice glass of wine? Pair it with some protein, like grilled chicken breast, or lean cuts of beef—to keep your blood sugar levels in check. And, of course—don't go overboard. And here's one more easy trick when dining out. Make sure your plate has some color in it. Whether it's leafy greens, roasted asparagus, or mango salsa, foods that are colorful are generally loaded with fiber and vitamin C. So enjoy your meal out!