Tips for Eating Healthy When Eating Out.

• As a beverage choice, ask for water or order fat-free or low-fat milk, unsweetened tea, or other drinks without added sugar.
• Ask for whole-wheat bread for sandwiches. 
• In a restaurant, start your meal with a salad packed with veggies, to help control hunger and feel satisfied sooner. 
• Ask for salad dressing to be served on the side. then use only as much as you want. 
• Choose main dishes that include vegetables, such as stir fries, kebobs, or pasta with a tomato sauce. 
• Order steamed, grilled, or broiled dishes instead of those that are fried or sauteed. 
• Choose a "small" or "medium" portion. this includes main dishes, side dishes, and beverages. 
• Order an item from the menu instead heading for the "all you can eat" buffet. 
• If main portions at a restaurant are larger then you want, try one of these strategies to keep from overeating: 

1. Order an appetizer-sided portion or a side dish instead of an entree. 
2. Share a main dish with a friend. 
3. If you can chill the extra food right away, take leftovers home in a "doggy bag."
4. When your food is delivered, set aside or pack half of it to go immediately. 
5. Resign from the "clean your plate club" - when you've eaten enough, leave the rest.

• To keep your meal moderate in calories, fat, and sugars:

1. Order foods that do not have creamy sauces or gravies.
2. Ask for salad dressing to be served "on the side" so you can add only as much as you want. 
3. Add  little or no butter to your food. 
4. Choose fruits for dessert most often. 

• On long commutes or shopping trips, pack some fresh fruit, cut-up vegetables, low-fat string cheese sticks, or a handful of unsalted nuts to help you avoid stopping for sweet or fatty snacks. 

Learn more from www.ChooseMyPlate.gov