Take control of your calories, even when you’re eating out. Order meat, poultry, or fish that is grilled, broiled, or steamed and served without gravy or sauce, ask for your salad dressing to be served on the side; request for your vegetables be steamed, then seasoned with lemon juice or herbs; and order a plain baked potato or rice. Above all, avoid butter.
Try not to indulge in foods described as over time, buttery, sautéed, fried, or creamed. Instead, select dishes that are broiled, grilled, steamed, roasted, or poached.
If the restaurant serves heaping helpings, go ahead and share an entrée with your partner; you may only have to pay an extra plate charge. Skip the main course and order an appetizer, salad, and soup.
Order first. This helps you keep to your diet because you avoid the temptation of following the lead of dining companions who select calorie rich foods.