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Whether you prefer the tang of fried pickles, crisp and juicy chicken wings, or a golden platter of the catch of the day, it seems like there’s a fried food for everyone. While these treats have a bad reputation, there’s room for them in even the healthiest diets. If the crunch of seafood, chicken, or snack-size vegetables is your guilty pleasure, here’s how you can enjoy these goodies on occasion. 

3 Tips for Incorporating Fried Food Into Your Diet 

1. Practice Portion Control

The problem with restrictive diets is that they prompt cravings. If you cut something out entirely—such as fried seafood or chocolate—you’ll start longing for it until you eventually eat more of it than you should. Instead, allow yourself to eat fried food, but limit your portion sizes so you don't derail your diet. Ask for a to-go container and pack half your entree as soon as it arrives to control what you eat in one sitting. Most servings of meat should only be about the size of a deck of cards; this reference makes it easier to visualize portions and avoid overeating.

2. Pair It With Healthier Dishes 

seafoodIf you’re craving an especially indulgent dish, such as a crispy seafood sampler, make sure the rest of the meal is relatively healthy. Order for a side salad instead of French fries, for example, and skip the cocktails altogether. Limiting your total carb intake may also be wise because most fried foods have a high glycemic index, which means they can raise blood sugar levels. If you’re eating out, avoid any bread or snacks the restaurant may provide and order lean chicken or fish for the main course. 

3. Put in a Little Extra Work 

While it’s true that you can’t outrun a bad diet, you can compensate for the occasional indulgence by working out more the following day. If you stick to a fairly regular routine, plan your “cheat days” around your most rigorous workouts so you can enjoy your favorite fried foods without stressing about the added calories. Even a brisk walk after your meal can help you feel more balanced.

 

The next time you’re craving fried seafood, head to Barefoot Island Grill in Orange Beach, AL. From coconut shrimp to fish and chips, they have lots of delicious offerings that highlight the best of the Gulf Coast. To view their full menu, check out their website, then call (251) 256-0055 to reserve a table for the whole family.

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