Healthy food choices on the go

March is National Nutrition Month! Join the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in celebration by focusing on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating habits. Many of us are looking for fast, easy and good-tasting foods to fit our busy lifestyle.

Below are some tips suggested by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to get you started towards healthy nutrition on the go.

1. Think ahead and plan where you will eat. Look for restaurants or carry-out with a wide range of menu items.
2. Take your time when looking at the menu. Sometimes there is a special area on the menu for “healthier” choices.
3. Menu terms that can mean healthier choices include baked, braised, broiled, grilled, poached, roasted, and steamed.
4. Menu terms that can mean more saturated fat and calories include batter-fried, pan-fried, buttered, creamed, crispy, breaded. Choose these foods only occasionally and in small portions.
5. Think about the size. Order regular or child-size portions, as mega-sized servings are probably more than you need.
6. Hunger can drive you to eat too much before your meal arrives. Hold the bread or chips until your meal is served. Out of sight, out of mind.
7. Think about your food choices for the entire day. If you’re planning a special restaurant meal in the evening, have a light breakfast and lunch.
8. Tempted by sweet, creamy desserts? Order one dessert with enough forks for everyone at the table to have a bite.
9. Split your order. Share the main course with a friend or take half home for another meal.
10. Ask for sauces and dressings on the side, so you can control how much you eat.

Every bite of nutrition is a step in the right direction. #NationalNutritionMonth

Read More:

https://www.eatright.org/food/resources/national-nutrition-month/toolkit