Smart Restaurant Dining

By Team Beachbody

Smart restaurant dining starts with planning. As enjoyable and delicious as dining out can be, you don't want to set yourself back a week by eating too much or the wrong kinds of foods. You can make your dining experience enjoyable and healthy if you follow these simple steps:

• Don't arrive at the restaurant with a ravenous hunger—you'll end up finishing the bread basket before your order reaches you.
• Have a light snack, such as yogurt and fruit, in the late afternoon so you're in control of your hunger.
• If you do have the bread, keep it to one roll or slice, and don't dip into the oil or butter.
• Choose a nutritious dish, which can be just as delicious as fatty, creamy choices.
• THE Beachbody SECRET WEAPON: Order half portions or share a full portion with a friend. It works every time! You'll enjoy the food, but won't overeat.
• When your plate hits the table, create the portion size that is right for you. Immediately send the balance to be wrapped as leftovers.
• Enjoy an after-meal walk for half an hour so you process the food before sleep.

How to Order Smart

Order a salad with light or fat-free dressing (on the side) as a first course to keep your mouth busy.

Look for a Lean Entree:

Seafood and skinless chicken breast are typically the leanest of the lean. Be careful to avoid entrees prepared with butter, cheese and cream sauces. Look for grilled or baked seafood or chicken or beef kabobs since these dishes typically will help you minimize your calories and fat.

If you are craving beef, order sirloin steak or petite filet mignon rather than fatty prime rib. Stir-fried entrees are also a good choice because they usually have more veggies than beef.

Watch the Alcohol:

Alcohol contains extra calories that you may not want or need, so go light on cocktails. Drinking too much before you eat can also numb your willpower—so have fun, but be careful.

Finishing with Dessert:

You don't have to have dessert when you eat at a restaurant. When you do partake, consider splitting a dessert with your dining partner or partners. Also consider eating a sorbet or sherbet; either will satisfy your sweet tooth for a fraction of the calories of the cheesecake. Choosing wisely is not that hard and you still feel in control and on track.