For those who travel often or work on the go, dining out can be a daily occurrence. Even though making meals at home isn’t always a possibility, you should still strive to eat healthy. It’s fairly easy to get a balanced meal at a restaurant if you know how to order correctly. Take these steps to ensure you’re eating healthy no matter how often you dine out.

How to Eat Healthy When You’re Eating Out

1. Order Water

Resist the temptation to order sugary beverages like sweet tea and soda. Though many people forget to work them into their calorie counts, most soft drinks will run you over 100 calories and can contain more than your daily recommended intake of sugar. Replace them with a refreshing glass of water, free of charge.

2. Take It Slow

When people are hungry, they tend to eat more and at a faster rate. Be conscious of this and slow down. Taking your time allows your body to recognize when it’s full and decreases your hunger for longer, making you less likely to start snacking later. Take brief breaks between mouthfuls and allow time for conversation.

3. Ask About Preparation

Knowing how your food is prepared at each restaurant will help you make healthy decisions. Ask the waiter what ingredients go into the dishes you’re eyeing, as well as how they’re cooked. Choose food that is grilled, steamed, baked, or roasted rather than fried. Dishes made from scratch are also preferable over frozen foods.

4. Check the Menu Early

If you’re at a restaurant with others, the pressures of finding a dish quickly may make you choose less mindfully. Avoid rushing your selection by taking a look at the restaurant’s menu ahead of time. Most will have an online menu for you to browse through at your convenience. If you still have questions, you can always ask your waiter before you order.

5. Fill up on Veggies

No matter what you choose, adding a healthy heap of vegetables will always make a meal more nourishing. Vegetables are excellent sources of essential vitamins and nutrients, and making them a significant part of your diet will lower your risk of developing many chronic diseases. Substitute side items for veggies, pile up your pizza with green toppings, or order a salad.

Are you looking for meals that are as delicious as they are healthy? If you’re in the Oneida County, WI, area, dine in at The Pizza Haven. This restaurant specializes in delicious Italian cuisine, including gourmet pizza, seafood, pasta, and sandwiches. With over 20 toppings to choose from, you can create your own healthy pizza. Their pies are built from scratch using the freshest ingredients. Call (715) 362-5942 for more information, or visit their website to look through the menu.