Eating out is often associated with poor food choices and an unhealthy diet, but sometimes, you don’t want to cook and prefer to treat yourself to a meal at a restaurant instead. Fortunately, dining out doesn’t mean you have to skip out on healthy foods. By using these tips, you can eat out, knowing you consumed a healthy meal full of valuable nutrition.

How to Eat Healthy While Dining Out

1. Drink a Lot of Water Before & During Your Meal

Drinking water is an affordable and healthy choice that keeps you hydrated. Consuming it during your meal will aid digestion, breaking down food so that your body can absorb nutrients.

2. Have a Salad Course

Salads provide a convenient way to add an extra serving of fruits or vegetables to your diet. The leafy greens in salads are full of fiber, and raw vegetables add a healthy serving of immune-boosting antioxidants as well as Vitamins C and E. Since salad dressing contains sodium, sugar, and saturated fats, ask for it on the side and try not to use too much.

3. Order Fish

Fish is one of the most beneficial healthy foods you can order, and you don’  t have to eat at a seafood restaurant to find it on the menu. Low in fat and high in omega-3 fatty acids, fish is loaded with much-needed nutrients, like Vitamin D and protein. Avoid ordering it fried, which can dilute the nutrients and add unhealthy fats to your meal.

4. Choose Healthy Side Options

It might seem easier to order meals as they’re recommended on the menu, but almost all restaurants allow customers to substitute suggested sides with healthier options. For example, ask for steamed broccoli instead of fried rice.

If you’re looking for healthy foods while dining out in Honolulu, HI, stop by Ahi and Vegetable and pick up a create-your-own combination plate or bento. Their menu is full of fresh fish and healthy seafood options, including sushi rolls, cooked salmon, teriyaki chicken, donburi, and salads. Call (808) 845-3500 to place an order at their main location on Dillingham Blvd, or dial (808) 377-4097 to reach their Ala Moana shop. You can also view their menu online.