This article focuses on tips for how to eat more healthily when going out for lunch or dinner.

BE AWARE OF HOW THINGS ARE PREPARED

Avoid anything fried or that’s described as crispy or crunchy, and choose things that are steamed, grilled, roasted or poached.

BE WARY OF THE BUFFET

All-you-can-eat places are bad for those who struggle with self-control.  A smaller plate might help you control the amount you eat better.

HAVE SAUCE OR DRESSINGS ON THE SIDE

These can be loaded with calories so doing it this way means you are more in control of how much you have.

START WITH A SOUP OR SALAD

Have a starter of soup or a bowl of vegetables, preferably without any meat or cheese added in.

RESIST THE BREAD BASKET

If you didn’t have your pre-dinner snack and you’re starving hungry, you could even send the bread basket back to save you from temptation

TOMATO-BASED SAUCES

If there’s an option, always choose a tomato-based sauce, not a creamy one.

SWAP OUT THE SIDES

Ask to swap fries or potatoes for an extra portion of veg.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO REQUEST CHANGES

If there’s nothing on the menu that quite works for you, then ask for a dish to be adapted for instance grilled instead of fried or more of one thing and less of another.

GO FOR SIMPLE DRINKS

Cocktails may taste good but they’re usually loaded with sugar. Try to stick with a small glass of wine or a light beer

So by applying a few of these tips, you can still go out and enjoy a meal safe in the knowledge that your healthy eating plan is still on track.