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It used to be a treat to go out and have dinner on the town. Once a month, the family would jump in the car and drive to a local restaurant to "give mom a break". Times have changed, and these days, restaurant food is an everyday fact of life for many of us. We stop for a burger or sandwich at lunchtime, and grab a pizza or bucket of chicken on the way home from work. Our drive-thru lifestyles demand instant meal gratification.

There's no doubt that fast food can be a real boon to our busy schedules. Still, we need to wonder if all of this convenience is taking a toll on our health. Is it possible to eat restaurant food, and stay on a healthy course?

Go for the Greens

You can't deny that greens and other fresh vegetables are a great diet choice. But, did you know that you may not necessarily be doing your body a favor when you order that salad for lunch or dinner? If you have rich dressing on your salad, you're taking a real calorie wallop. Choose low-fat dressing, or take the dressing on the side. Then, use as little as necessary. This same rule works for other sauces too, so try it next time you order your fries with gravy.

Go for Grilled Goodness

Don't settle for fried foods, when meats and veggies are even more delicious grilled, baked, broiled, poached and steamed. These cooking methods use little fat or no fat at all, so the foods are much lower in calories. Grilling brings out the natural flavors in meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables, so you won't need to drown them in sauces and butter. To save even more fat and calories, ask your server or chef to grill your foods without additional butter or oil. Your food will taste delicious and only your hips will know the difference.

It Is Pastable to Eat Healthy

It's OK to love pasta, but too many cream-based sauces can wreak havoc on your waistline. Pass the alfredo and choose a zesty tomato-based sauce instead. Tomato sauces are much lower in fat and calories, and can even be counted as a vegetable on your food wheel. Spices and a little cheese sprinkled on top will make a delicious meal.

Drink To Your Health

When you're eating smart, it only makes sense to drink smart, too. Skip the beer and wine at lunch or dinner, and order a glass of water, milk or juice instead. Even coffee and tea are better options. Soft drinks? Not so smart. Even if your value meal comes with a glass of pop, you aren't obligated to take it. Instead, spend the extra 25 cents and get a carton of milk. Your bones, and your whole body, will thank you for it.

Start Smart

Having a little meal before your meal can be a great idea. Soup is particularly good as an appetizer, as most are low in calories and tend to fill you up before the main course arrives. Watch out for cream soups and chowders that are loaded with fat and calories. If you're looking to eat less, order two appetizers, like a soup and side salad, instead of a big main course meal. You'll eat less and will likely save money at the same time.

Sensible Sides

If you have the option of choosing your sides, ask for fresh vegetables or a baked potato instead of french fries. Choose a healthy baked potato, and don't weigh it down butter, cheese or sour cream. If you want to give your spud a little extra kick, try it with a spoonful of salsa.

High Fiber, Low Fat

Try to base your meal choices on dishes that include healthy servings of fruits and vegetables. Your body just can't do without these essential sources of dietary fiber. Ask for whole wheat pasta, whole grain bread and brown rice with your meals. Go ahead and break bread, but hold the butter.

Take it to Go

When you are full, stop eating. This may seem obvious, but many people insist on getting their 'money's worth' out of a restaurant meal. Listen to your body and know when you've had enough. You can always ask to take the remainder home. After all, half of tonight's pasta will make a great lunch tomorrow.

Share the Sweetness

What's better than a devastatingly delicious dessert? Half of one! Go ahead and give in to your dessert craving, and then give half of it to your companion. That caramel pecan cheesecake will be every bit as delicious when you share it with a friend, and you'll only be getting half the calories. If sweet and sensible is more your style, order a fruit salad, yogurt, or sorbet for dessert.

You should make healthy choices when you're on the run, but it's also OK to treat yourself now and then. If you're celebrating a special event and you want melted butter with your lobster, go right ahead. All types of foods can find a place in a well-balanced diet. Don't deprive yourself of the foods you really love. Your time is precious, after all, so enjoy every minute of it.

This Yoga article is provided by Articleteller - The Free Article Directory http://www.articleteller.com

Columnist Kenneth Surr contributes to a variety of Internet sites, on healthy lifestyle and healthy dieting subjects.

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