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Eat Healthy on the Town

It used to be a treat to go out and have dinner on the town. Once a month, the family would jump in the car and drive to a local restaurant to "give mom a break". Times have changed, and these days, restaurant food is an everyday fact of life for many of us. We stop for a burger or sandwich at lunchtime, and grab a pizza or bucket of chicken on the way home from work. Our drive-thru lifestyles demand instant meal gratification.

There's no doubt that fast food is a real time saver for many. But while we're saving time and trouble, what kind of effect is all of this having on our bodies? It takes some diligence, but it is possible to eat healthy when you eat out.

Greens Means Go

You might think that ordering a salad is a great mealtime choice, but those rich dressing can really pack a calorie wallop. Ask for your salad dressing on the side, and use as much or as little as you wish. The same holds true for gravy and other sauces. If you absolutely must have gravy with your fries, at least you can have some control over your calorie intake.

Grill Up Some Goodness

Fried foods are laden with nasty fats, so why settle for fried foods when you can have your meats and veggies grilled, baked, broiled, poached or steamed. These cooking methods use little or no fat, and are much lower in calories. When foods are grilled, the natural flavors are greatly enhanced, and there is little need for rich butters, gravies and sauces. You can whittle away even more fats and calories by having the chef grill your foods without additional oil or butter. The food will be delicious and only your hips will know the difference.

It Is Pastable to Eat Healthy

It's OK to love pasta, but too many cream-based sauces can wreak havoc on your waistline. Pass the alfredo and choose a zesty tomato-based sauce instead. Tomato sauces are much lower in fat and calories, and can even be counted as a vegetable on your food wheel. Spices and a little cheese sprinkled on top will make a delicious meal.

Drink to Your Good Health

When you're eating smart, it only makes sense to drink smart, too. Skip the beer and wine at lunch or dinner, and order a glass of water, milk or juice instead. Even coffee and tea are better options. Soft drinks? Not so smart. Even if your value meal comes with a glass of pop, you aren't obligated to take it. Instead, spend the extra 25 cents and get a carton of milk. Your bones, and your whole body, will thank you for it.

Start Smart

Some people skip appetizers in fear of extra calories, but a little meal before your meal can actually be a great idea. Soups, for instance, are sensational low-cal appetizers to take the edge off of your hunger before the main course arrives. Ask for a nice broth or consomme base, and watch out for fatty cream soups and chowders. Instead of a big main course, try two appetizers, like a soup and salad. You'll save money and eat less.

Sensible Sides

If you are offered a choice of side dishes, choose fresh vegetables or a baked potato instead of french fries. Baked potatoes are great side orders, provided they're not weighed down with butter, bacon, cheese, or sour cream. Ask for a side order of salsa to give your spud a healthy kick of flavor.

Fiber First

Base your meal choice on dishes that use fruits and vegetables as key ingredients. These are essential sources of dietary fiber that your body just can't do without. Ask for whole wheat bread and pasta, and brown rice instead of white. Speaking of bread, feel free to have a slice, but skip the butter and oils.

Enough is Enough

When you start to feel full, it's time to stop eating. Sound a little too simple? You'd be surprised at how many people insist on getting "their money's worth" by eating every last bit of their restaurant meals. Listen to your belly and know when you've had enough. Half of tonight's pasta will make a fantastic lunch tomorrow, so go ahead and ask for a doggy bag.

Share the Sweetness

If you're craving dessert, your dinner partner probably is as well. Go ahead and order that slice of caramel pecan cheesecake -- with two spoons. Half the dessert means half the calories. Or, get something sweet and sensible like a dish of sherbet or a bowl of berries.

You should make healthy choices when you're on the run, but it's also OK to treat yourself now and then. If you're celebrating a special event and you want melted butter with your lobster, go right ahead. All types of foods can find a place in a well-balanced diet. Don't deprive yourself of the foods you really love. Your time is precious, after all, so enjoy every minute of it.