When ordering Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indian or other cuisines, ask the waiter to recommend lower fat entrees if you re unsure of the ingredients or how an item is prepared. If sodium is a concern, be aware of hidden salt in soy sauce and other ingredients. Go easy on chips and dip, baskets of bread and other pre-meal offerings. You re likely consuming more calories, fat and sodium than you realize, before you ve even tackled your meal. Order an appetizer and share a main entr e with a friend.
Restaurants often serve gigantic portions - plenty for two to share.
If your sweet tooth is calling, split dessert as well, or take half home to enjoy tomorrow. Sides - order a baked potato instead of French fries. Stuffed potatoes can carry a whopping number of calories, while a simple baked potato with plain yogurt and chopped green onions makes a modest addition to your calorie tally. Choose rice or a bean dish, such as lentils or black beans. A tomato and cottage cheese salad provides vitamin C and protein too.