HEALTH CONCERNS

7 Tricks for Healthy Eating At Restaurants

by
Parsley Health
Author
March 12, 2016

A lot of people say they want to eat healthier, but that they eat out too much to make it a realistic goal to achieve.

At Parsley Health we want you to know that eating out can be healthy — it’s just about knowing what to look for and what to avoid when you sit down to the table.

By following these tips, you can be confident that you are making the healthiest choices available without giving up your favorite restaurant!

1. Eat a small snack before you go out to eat

A handful of nuts, ¼ of an avocado, a scoop of almond butter or a hard boiled egg are all great options. Not arriving to your destination in a state of starvation will help you choose with a clear head.

2. Pass on the bread basket

If everyone at your table is in agreement on this, the best way to resist it is to not have it in front of you. The waiter may be able to bring you some olives or cut up veggies instead.

3. Start with a salad

A lot of appetizers are fried or breaded, so sticking with a salad is a great way to have an appetizer course, but a much healthier one. For dressing stick with oil and vinegar or oil and lemon juice.

4. Go for the protein and produce

Grilled, roasted or broiled fish, chicken, tofu or lean meat along with sautéed veggies are a safe bet. If you don’t see any dishes prepared this simply on the menu, just ask, it’s likely that they will be able to make it for you.

5. Know before you go

If possible, check out the menu before you go so that you can decide in advance what you’d like to eat. This way it won’t be any trouble at all when you get to the restaurant because you will already have your plan in place. Many restaurants will note certain dietary restrictions such as gluten and dairy free on their menu. Additionally, some restaurants have a separate gluten free menu that they will provide upon request.

6. Suggest a healthy restaurant

Are you able to choose the restaurant? We’ve created a Parsley Approved Restaurant Guide for New York City, Los Angeles and San Francisco – and picking your spot ensures you will have no trouble finding healthier eating choices.

7. Remember fruit is nature’s candy

Usually fresh fruit – especially berries which have a low glycemic load – is the best way to satisfy your sweet tooth. But, if you’d like to indulge a bit, share dessert with others at the table. You can satisfy your palate with a few bites and keep your body happy by not overdoing it. Another trick I like is BYO dessert! Stick a square or two of dark chocolate in your bag and have that instead of any dessert at the restaurant.

Bonus Tip!

It’s ok to indulge every once in a while, especially if you have set a strong nutritional foundation. Parsley members and staff often use the Rebuild Protein Shake as that bedrock – 26g of vegan protein , high availability nutrients, healthy fats , fiber and more. We blend ours in the morning with a handful of frozen blueberries, flax seed, Korintje cinnamon and coconut milk. Yum!

by
Parsley Health
Author

Parsley Health is the doctor that helps you live healthier, longer, by treating the root cause of symptoms and conditions. Our medical teams—staffed by leading clinicians and health coaches—spend more time with you, order the right tests, and prescribe food, sleep and movement alongside medications so you can get better—and feel better.

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