Making Mindful Choices

Eating out can be a delightful experience, but it often poses challenges for those trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle or lose weight. However, with a little knowledge and careful planning, you can navigate restaurant menus and make smart choices that will help you stay on track with your weight loss goals.
I recently went out to eat at a local Mexican place, and thought it would be a great opportunity to share some quick tips (in the video above and blog below) in regards to eating healthier when going out to eat.

Opt for Lean Proteins:
When choosing a main course, opt for lean protein sources such as grilled chicken, turkey, fish, or tofu. These options are generally lower in fat and can help keep you feeling satisfied without the added calories from excessive fats or carbohydrates. Occasionally these will be cooked in extra butter and oils so make sure to ask for them to not be cooked that way if possible.

Be Mindful of Sauces, Dressings, and Syrups:
Sauces and dressings can turn a seemingly healthy meal into a high-calorie indulgence. Request dressings and sauces on the side, so you can control the amount you consume. Alternatively, choose light vinaigrettes or tomato-based sauces instead of heavy creams or oil-based dressings. Many of these options are very high in both fat and carbs and can ruin your weight loss goals.

Load Up on Veggies:
Vegetables are your allies when dining out. Choose dishes with a generous portion of vegetables, either as a side or incorporated into the main course. Vegetables are generally low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a perfect choice for weight-conscious diners. As noted in the video above, I got a large amount of vegetable based options in my burrito bowl to boost the fiber and nutrients!

Practice Portion Control:
Restaurant portions are notoriously larger than what you would typically serve at home. To avoid overeating, consider sharing a meal with a friend or packing up half of your dish before you start eating. This way, you can enjoy your meal without consuming excessive calories. Eating in moderation is the king of weight loss, especially when keeping calories in check.

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Conclusion:
Losing weight while eating out is entirely possible with some awareness and thoughtful decision-making. As noted in the video above, I made a few simple tweaks by limiting the higher fat and higher carb options when making my burrito bowl. Remember to research menus in advance, choose lean proteins and vegetables, be mindful of sauces, and practice portion control. With these strategies in mind, you can stay on track with your weight loss goals and make eating out a positive and health-conscious experience. Make sure to subscribe to our blog to continue to gain valuable insights to improve your health and knowledge of the gym. And if you didn’t want to do that, I think you would still enjoy this other article I am going to link below, talking about a few foods that you thought were healthy.. but might not be.

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