While visually appealing, it may not align with your health goals.
I dine out approximately once a week, typically over the weekends. It serves as a refreshing change, allowing me to savor a delicious and satisfying meal that I may not be able to prepare myself. At times, I opt for a quick burger at a fast-food establishment, while on other occasions, I indulge in more elaborate dishes such as rice bowls. However, every time I eat out, I devise a meticulous strategy and adhere to it.
It’s crucial to bear in mind that a restaurant, even if it’s a cozy, family-run place, is ultimately a commercial entity, with the main objective of selling you food. The presentation of their dishes is enticing because they aim to entice you into ordering more than what you would typically consume on your own. It may be tempting to choose larger portions (a prevalent issue in the United States, but that’s beside the point), but doing so can lead to digestive discomfort or other health issues.
Whenever feasible, opt for smaller, more sensible servings, preferably accompanied by a generous serving of vegetables. Additionally, try to reduce the consumption of condiments and dressings; the dressing used in a McDonald’s salad is laden with fat, nearly negating any nutritional advantages from the greens. Nowadays, most eateries are more than willing to cater to special dietary requirements and allergies, so if you need clarification on any dish, feel free to make a request. Failure to assist you could potentially result in legal action, which is a restaurant’s worst nightmare.
If only large portions are available or if opting for some form of meal deal is more cost-effective, remember that you are not obliged to consume everything in one go. Request a take-out bag, store it in your home fridge, and enjoy it over the next day or two. If you must consume a substantial amount of food, try to spread it out over several servings.