Eating Out In Douglasville, GA The Healthy Way
By Kathy Scapin, Gold’s Gym
Eating at Home a Better Choice
It is a fact that when you are able to prepare your food at home you are in a better position to control your portion size and the calories that you consume. Not to mention the money we spend for the convenience of that high fat, sodium-laden food. The reality is that it is necessary from time to time to order fast food or eat at a restaurant known for it’s heaping portions. When faced with this dilemma there are a couple of key points to remember.
Portion Control Problems
One restaurant portion could feed an entire fraternity house–who needs all those calories? So when you order an entree, ask them to automatically put half of it directly into a take-home box. That way, it’ll never show up on your plate! Staying slim helps lower your risk of cancer, diabetes, stroke, and many other illnesses. And you’ll have a ready-made meal for tomorrow! Order The Appetizer Portion. Did you know the first three bites are the most satisfying? After those initial three bites we eat because it is there. Our taste buds are actually satisfied very early on. So order a side salad and an appetizer as your main entrée. Always order a side salad when eating at traditional fast-food outlets. You will be less likely to fill up on only the unhealthy items, and the salad will provide some fiiber and vitains to balance an otherwise unhealthy meal.
Can you Skip the Bread?
As soon as you sit down, let the waiter know you would like them to not bring the bread and butter to the table. You won’t be tempted to nibble.
Better Fast Food Options
Forego the Combo meals and say no to super sizing. Most fast food chains now offer healthy salad options. Wendy’s small bowl of Chili, or small hamburger is two good options. Either choice combined with a salad makes a great lunch option. Just watch that dressing choice or you will sabotage your good decision.
Know the Facts
Did you know that almost every restaurant or fast food chain has their own website with the nutritional breakdown of all their options? With a little planning you can make good, healthy decisions. Remember that chicken isn’t always a healthy choice. Many fast food chains offer fried breaded chicken sandwiches on white bread that are actually richer in fat and calories than a burger. Grilled chicken is a better option yet hold the mayo. A tablespoon of regular mayonnaise has almost 100 calories! Try a little mustard at 10 calories a tablespoon. Don’t add a sugary, calorie-rich drink to an already unhealthy meal. Water is available everywhere and is good for you. Drinking a large glass of water with your meal will help you feel fuller earlier.
Eat a Small Snack to Avoid Cravings
Make it a habit to eat a piece of fruit, a bowl of cereal, or some lowfat yogurt before you set out to run errands. Regular eating can help you feel full and avoid temptation. Stock your car with bottled water and healthy snacks. Have a small snack before the cravings hit, and you’re less likely to pull into that drive-through fast food outlet. Consider a supermarket for your fast food break. You can pick up precut and washed fresh fruit or vegetables, yogurt, or lowfat cheese. Many supermarkets also offer sushi or other healthy prepared items.
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