By Heather Maloney
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center staff
Sandra Allonen, a registered dietitian at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, offers some tips on how to eat healthy when you’re eating out:
At fast food restaurants:
· Pick a grilled chicken sandwich or a salad with grilled (not crispy) chicken and light salad dressing
· Choose a fruit cup or side salad with light salad dressing instead of the French fries
· Instead of soda, get water or low-fat milk
· If a restaurant’s only option is a burger and fries, order the smallest size available
· A baked potato is a good idea only if you don’t load it up with butter and bacon bits; otherwise, have a salad
· Look for low-calorie dessert options, like low-fat vanilla ice cream or fruit and yogurt parfaits
At the concession stand:
· Opt for grilled chicken instead of fried foods, if possible. If you have to have something fried, get the smallest portion available
· Get baked potato chips instead of regular chips
· For a sweet treat, have low-fat soft-serve ice cream instead of cookies or a candy bar
· Drink diet soda (or even better, water) instead of regular soda
At picnics and barbecues:
· Avoid macaroni and potato salads; opt for vegetables and fruit salads instead
· Bring a healthy dish to the gathering to ensure that you will have at least one nutritious option
· If you have to have soda, make sure it’s diet soda
· At the grill, choose a veggie burger or grilled chicken instead of a hot dog or hamburger
Above content provided by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. For advice about your medical care, consult your doctor.
Posted February 2010