Saturday, February 11, 2012

Eating Out Done Right


You’ve just spent 40+ hours slaving over your textbook, looking for lost note cards, and filling out three study guides. You’re tired, and on top of that you’re HUNGRY! The most logical thing to do would be to satisfy your hunger. So you ask yourself the most complex question known to mankind; do you bring out your inner Rachael Ray and start cooking? Or refer to your wallet hoping you have enough money to dine out?
For many students eating out is convenient and sometimes more affordable than cooking at home. But let’s face it, eating out is not always the best health choice.

At a drive thru, people have the option to super size their order or order from a 99-cent menu. Restaurants are in constant competition with kitchens at home, so it may be tempting to eat out rather than to stay at home and cook. Making better health choices are possible at restaurants and it all starts with you. Here are some tips to follow for your next restaurant visit:
  •  Order an appetizer or side dish as your main meal, or share a meal with a friend.
  • Ask for water or order low-fat or fat-free milk, unsweetened tea, or other drinks with no added sugars.
  • Order foods that are steamed, grilled, or baked instead of fried, battered or sautéed.
  • Choose the "small" or "medium" size for your main item, sides, and drinks.
  • Choose regular hamburgers instead of double cheeseburgers with extra bacon and mayonnaise. (click here for full list)
You don’t have to feel guilty about eating out. Eating out is A-Okay as long as its done in moderation. Choose to eat at restaurants that offer fresh, local ingredients such as Chipolte or Einstein Bros. Bagels. 


When you do decide to cook at home meal preparation is key. Plan your meals ahead so you can have more time studying for those exams. 


Jynea Watts
@jyneawatts  

4 comments:

  1. Great ideas for eating healthy when time does not allow you to cook. I like sharing a dish or going with an entree for a meal.

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  2. Sharing a dish with a friend always has its perks... especially when you get to split the cost with a friend.

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  3. Honestly, I am a student who eats out on most occasions. I do not have time to slave away in the kitchen preparing healthy and innovative dishes. When I eat at a restaurants or order carry out, my goal is to choose a nutritious item. Over time, I have found certain restaurants that are more health conscientious than others. One of my favorites in the Phoenix area is Fresh Mint, a small vegetarian restaurant that provides tasty alternatives to traditional types of foods. Another healthy restaurant is Paradise Bakery, as long as you don’t eat the baked goods. They offer a variety of salads, sandwiches, and soups. It also caters to those people who are on the go and need a quick meal option.

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  4. I'm googling Fresh Mint right now! : ) I've been looking for some "good" vegetarian restaurants... so thanks.

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