What You Shouldn’t Order in a Restaurant

Eating out at restaurants can be a delightful experience, offering a chance to indulge in delicious cuisine and enjoy the company of friends and family. However, when it comes to making healthy choices, navigating the menu can sometimes feel like a daunting task. To help you make informed decisions and prioritize your health while dining out, here’s a guide to what you shouldn’t order in a restaurant:

1. Fried Foods: While they may be tempting, fried foods like french fries, chicken wings, and mozzarella sticks are often high in unhealthy fats and calories. Opt for grilled, baked, or steamed options instead to reduce your intake of excess oil and calories.
2. Creamy Sauces and Dressings: Dishes smothered in creamy sauces or dressings may taste delicious, but they can also be loaded with hidden calories, saturated fat, and sodium. Choose dishes with lighter sauces or ask for dressings on the side to control your portion sizes.
3. Giant Portion Sizes: Many restaurants serve oversized portions that far exceed recommended serving sizes. Be mindful of portion sizes and consider sharing dishes or asking for a half portion to avoid overeating.
4. Sugar-Sweetened Beverages: Sodas, sweetened teas, and sugary cocktails are often filled with empty calories and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. Opt for water, sparkling water, or unsweetened beverages to stay hydrated without the added sugar.
5. Processed Meats: Dishes made with processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats are often high in sodium and unhealthy additives. Choose leaner protein options like grilled chicken, fish, or tofu to reduce your intake of processed meats.
6. Deep-Dish Pizza: While pizza can be a delicious treat, deep-dish varieties are typically higher in calories and saturated fat due to their thick crust and generous cheese topping. Opt for thin-crust pizza with plenty of veggies for a lighter, more nutritious option.
7. All-You-Can-Eat Buffets: While buffets may offer a wide variety of choices, they can also encourage overeating and lead to poor food choices. Be mindful of portion sizes and focus on filling your plate with nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
8. Bread Baskets: While bread baskets may be a staple at many restaurants, filling up on bread before your meal arrives can add unnecessary calories and carbs to your diet. Consider skipping the bread or enjoying it in moderation as a small appetizer.
9. Desserts with Excessive Sugar and Fat: Indulgent desserts like cheesecake, chocolate lava cake, and ice cream sundaes are often high in sugar, fat, and calories. Opt for lighter dessert options like fresh fruit, sorbet, or a small serving of dark chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth without overdoing it.
10. Dishes with Hidden Sodium: Many restaurant dishes are loaded with hidden sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. Be wary of dishes that are heavily seasoned or prepared with sauces, and consider asking for them to be made with less salt.

By being mindful of what you shouldn’t order in a restaurant and making informed choices, you can enjoy dining out while prioritizing your health and well-being. Remember to listen to your body, enjoy your meal in moderation, and savor the experience of dining out without sacrificing your health goals.