Who doesn’t love a delicious takeout meal or the convenience of having food delivered to your doorstep? With the rise of food delivery services, it’s becoming easier and more tempting to forgo cooking and opt for takeout instead. These meal delivery options may be convenient, but they often come with a price – both for your wallet and for your health. But fear not; I’m here to share some tips and tricks for making healthier choices when ordering takeout or using a food delivery service. With these simple strategies, you can still enjoy your favorite meal while staying on track with your health goals. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make eating healthy a breeze, even when you’re ordering in!
Choose Your Cuisine Wisely
First and foremost, when it comes to ordering takeout or food delivery, the type of cuisine you choose can make a big difference in terms of healthiness. Instead of automatically reaching for your go-to Chinese food or deep-dish pizza, consider meal prepping options that are lighter and more nutrient-dense.
For example, you can opt for a colorful and flavorful stir-fry from your favorite Asian spot, packed with veggies or steamed vegetables and lean protein. Or try a veggie-loaded wrap or salad from that new sandwich shop down the street (I love Pita Pit here in Spokane when I want a take out lunch). Choosing a cuisine that focuses on fresh, whole ingredients is key to eating healthier when ordering in.
Customize Your Order
Another great way to make your takeout or delivery order healthier is by customizing it to fit your dietary needs and meal preferences. Many restaurants and delivery services now allow you to make modifications, such as swapping out white rice for brown rice, choosing a lighter sauce or meal option, or lettuce wrapping your burger.
You can also request extra veggies instead of fried sides, choose grilled options over fried, like grilled chicken with olive oil, and ask for dressings or sauces on the side. Don’t be afraid to make these simple changes – try different types of diets for your weight loss goals that will not only make your meals healthier but also suit your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to be extra if this is what you need to feel good after eating out. Many restaurants want to make you happy so you will come back in again. In this case, you could also mix and match different cuisines to create a nutritious and delicious meal.
Be Mindful of Portion Sizes
One of the biggest pitfalls when ordering takeout or food delivery service is overindulging in portion sizes. Many restaurants and delivery services offer large portions, which can lead to consuming more calories than you intended. This is an especially widespread problem in American restaurants of any type of food.
To combat this, try splitting a meal with a friend or family member or save half for leftovers. You can also opt to order from the lunch menu, which typically offers smaller portions at a lower cost. Additionally, pay attention to how much you are eating and stop when you feel satisfied – don’t feel pressured to finish everything on your plate. If I find myself eating out of boredom at the end of the meal, I will place my napkin over my food.
Don’t Forget About Healthy Side Options
While the main dish may be the star of the show, don’t forget about adding some healthy side options to your order. This can include a side of steamed vegetables, a small salad, or a fruit cup. These additions can help boost the nutrient content of your meal and provide extra fiber and vitamins. You could also opt for healthier options like air-popped popcorn or fresh fruit instead of chips or cookies.
Choose Water as Your Beverage
Last but not least, don’t forget about what you’re drinking with your takeout or meal delivery. Sugary sodas and juices can quickly add up in calories and contribute to weight gain. They also may not keep you feeling as full and satisfied as water would. A lot of people also forget that alcohol contains a lot of sugars in them that can contribute to insulin resistance.
Instead, choose water as your beverage of choice if you are able. It’s free of calories and sugar, and it also helps you stay hydrated. If you’re craving something with more flavor, opt for sparkling water or add a slice of lemon or cucumber to your regular water for a refreshing twist. For alcohol, consider choosing a hard alcohol mixed with club soda rather than juice or soda. Bitter and other garnishes can help and your bartender would love to help you figure out what works best for you by letting them craft a fun concoction just for you!
Wrapping Up
With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the convenience of takeout meals and food delivery without sacrificing your health. Remember that your food choices are within your control, so make sure to be mindful and make healthy choices that align with your health goals. Plus, my weight loss program in Spokane can help you take things a step further and create lasting healthy habits that will not only help you reach your desired weight but also improve your overall well-being. So go ahead and order that restaurant meal guilt-free and with confidence! Happy and healthy eating!
