Healthy Eating While Dining Out

So, you have been doing great on your healthy eating plan, but holiday season is coming up, and there are lots of events where dining out is on the agenda. This is no reason to completely blow it! We've got you covered with some of these "dining out" go to options, to help keep you on track during this festive, busy time!

Your Fav Breakfast Spot: Vegetable Omelette, with a side of salsa and fruit. Hold the

cheese and meat. Fresh Grapefruit juice is a nice side.

Lunch Café: Go for a salad or wrap. Hold the croutons, cream dressings, and fried salad additions. Top with salsa, avocado, fruit, or nuts and seeds instead. For a light dressing ask for a lemon cut in half + oil & vinegar on the side. For a refreshing drink you could have some sparkling water with lemon and/or lime.

A Grill House of BBQ Restaurant (Moxi’s, Milestones, The Keg, State & Main, etc): Grilled or baked fish or lean protein, asparagus or any vegetable and a side salad (same guidelines as above for the salad dressing).

Mexican Restaurant: Beans, vegetables, chicken, guacamole, pico de gallo, jalapeño + salsa. “Burrito Bowl”. Tortillas in moderation (corn are usually Gluten Free). Hold the sour cream, white rice and cheese.

Thai Food: Go for dishes with lean protein and vegetables, or a spicy tom yum soup. Hold off on anything breaded or fried.

Italian: Antipasto salad (usually with olives, artichokes, sundried tomatoes, peppers, and an oil based dressing). Chicken cacciatore- chicken, peppers, mushroom and red sauce. Hold the heavy pasta, even if it’s gluten-free. No cheese unless it’s a really special occasion ;)

Sushi: Ask for your sushi to be wrapped in cucumber or seaweed paper. Miso soup, seaweed salads, edamame, blackened cod and sashimi. Don’t be afraid to ask for some extra ginger on the side, this is a nutrition powerhouse ingredient! Stay away from the white rice and fried items.

Fast Food: Obviously, avoid when you can, but if that’s your option for that day, order the salad

but opt out on the heavy dressings and cheese.

Other Places: Keep it green and lean! Always check the menu, ask questions

about toppings and if you can sub sides. Most places have made great strides to accommodate healthy options, because of people like us, demanding it! Keep it up! :)

Also, if you are drinking alcohol, it is best to use water as a mix instead of juices and pop, and wine is usually a better choice than heavy beers and mixed drinks. Remember to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and to lessen the "hangover" affects. Always drink responsibly and get home safe.

Enjoy the Holidays!

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