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Ditch the splurge mentality,
as eating out is such a common occurrence
it is better to view it as an opportunity
for healthy dining. Think small, most restaurant
portions are way too big and this is especially
true in Hawaii. That means you should share
with a friend, order from the pupu menu (watch
out for deep fried) or divide the meal into
two before you start eating and take home
half for the next day. Don’t drink your
calories as alcoholic drinks, smoothies, sweetened
beverages can add on as many as 500 calories,
order sparkling water or unsweetened tea instead.
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Don’t be shy to ask
for special preparation. Many deep fried items
can be grilled or sautéed, ask for
brown rice instead of white, extra vegetables
instead of the starch or dressing and gravies
on the side.
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Use the easy to remember guide
when ordering and eating. Have 50% of your
plate be fruits or vegetables.
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Be wary of high fat freebies
like chips or fat laden breads that are put
on the table when you arrive. It is hard to
resist these when you are hungry so ask your
server not to give you any.
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If you are travelling you
can visit Healthydiningfinder.com
which will help you to find restaurants
with healthy options in other locations. This
program, funded by the Center for Disease
Control, currently has 50, 000 restaurant
locations, many of which are chains, including
some in Hawaii. The website lists the criteria
that must be met in order to be included.
This resource can be especially useful when
traveling to help you find healthy eats on
the road. Menu and maps are included. Not
all items on these menus are healthy but you
will be able to find some of the following:
whole grains, fruits and vegetables and leaner
proteins; lower calorie entrée, side
dishes or desserts. Because there is a fee
to participate there are few single location
restaurants.
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