Whether it's meeting up with friends over lunch or ordering carry out for your busy family, eating out is a part of our lives. We eat out because it's fun, not to mention quick and easy. The question, is it healthy? 

The key is to plan ahead, choose wisely, and you can find something good to eat that fits into your meal plan.  For a healthier you, keep these ten tips in mind when eating out:

1. When in doubt, find out! If you’re not sure what the ingredients are or aren’t sure of the serving size, ask.
2. If the serving size is large, share some with others, or put the extra food in a container to go.
3. Drink water while waiting for your meal. People who drink water before meals generally eat less.
4. Eat slowly. It takes 30 minutes for your body to release hormones that let you know that you are full.
5. Order baked potato plain, but top it with a teaspoon of margarine or low-calorie sour cream, and/or vegetables from the salad bar.
6. Ask for sauces, gravy and salad dressings "on the side." Dip your fork into the dressing before your salad; you will use less dressing while keeping the flavor.
7. Breaded or fried foods add fat and calories; try foods that are baked, broiled or grilled.
8. When ordering, be creative! Instead of an entree, combine a salad with a low-fat appetizer. Order fruit/melon for dessert. Not confident that you can resist dessert? Chances are you might not want the entire dessert; ask that it be split and served on separate plates for you and another person to enjoy.
9. Don’t be afraid to ask for substitutions. Instead of french fries, request a double order of a vegetable or a salad. If you can't substitute, ask that the high-fat food be left off your plate.
10. Limit alcohol, which adds calories but no nutrition to your meal.

Do you want to learn more about eating out and healthy options?

Consider joining us at the upcoming Flavors of Health at Aladdin's Eatery in Lakewood on Monday, October 19. Mousab Tabbaa, MD, gastroenterologist, will demonstrate that healthy food can be both nutritious and delicious.

Aladdin's Eatery
14536 Detroit Ave, Lakewood
Monday, October 19 from 6 to 8 pm
Cost is $12 for the meal only.

Reservations are required.  Call 216.521.4005 to reserve your seat at the table!