Dining Out? Take our Tips with You!
Chicago Restaurant Week begins this Friday! This annual event is a great opportunity to sample some of the best of Chicago’s culinary scene with prix fixe menus from more than 370 participating restaurants. At FEED Nutrition Consulting, we believe healthy eating is possible anywhere– as long as you have the right tools.
Read on for some best practices for healthy eating when dining out from the dietitians at FEED as well as other top nutrition professionals who lent us their expertise:
Practice portion control:
“Avoid eating all of the protein you order– even though fish and lean meats can be healthful options when dining out. Typically, restaurant portions are two to three times more than what we should eat at one meal! Use your palm or smartphone as a measurement guide, and save the rest for lunch the next day!” –Lara Field, pediatric nutrition expert and owner of FEED Nutrition Consulting
“Limit alcohol– calories can add up quickly! Save your appetite for the delicious food you will eat instead.” –Melanie Silverman, pediatric specialist and Lactation Consultant serving Los Angeles County, Orange County and San Diego County
Eat Your Veggies:
“Double up on your veggies. Restaurants do a phenomenal job of preparing vegetables in delicious ways these days. Filling half of your plate with plants provides fiber and important phytonutrients, while helping you to feel full. You may also find a new favorite way to prepare a veggie at home.” –Angie Dye, Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor
Be Mindful and Enjoy the Experience:
“Do not leave mindful eating at the door when you enter a restaurant. Control portions by ordering appetizer-size dishes and sharing meals with your company. Eat slowly by savoring the food and chewing your food well.” –Vicki Shanta Retelny, The Lifestyle Nutritionist
“When eating out with a group, ordering several shared plates is a great way to try a lot of what a restaurant has to offer and avoid overeating while indulging in a few splurges alongside more nutritious dishes.” –Kimberly Novotny, Chicago-based dietitian and fitness professional
“Mindful eating isn’t just for at-home meals – it applies to dining out, too! Tune into your hunger, and ask yourself what food sounds good and order accordingly. When the food arrives, take your time enjoying its visual appeal, aroma and taste. Pause between bites for conversation and soaking in the dining experience. Check in with your fullness cues and when you’re comfortably full, put down the fork and ask for a to-go box if you have food left. Dining out should be a guilt-free and fun experience!” –Taylor Wolfram, vegan, non-diet dietitian who believes in the power of self-care
Need more help with following healthy habits while dining out? Book an appointment with a FEED dietitian today!