Less is Best
Usually this time of year, my husband and I do a purification diet. It is just what our bodies need after heavy holiday munching. Although I don’t usually look forward to it, I am reminded of the feeling when it’s over.
After 10 days of extremely clean eating—lots of fruits and vegetables and lean proteins minus any added fat, sugar or salt—my taste buds are revived. I delight in each morsel of food that goes into my mouth, savoring the wholesome flavor.
It was never easy and we were constantly challenged to stick to it, especially if we were on the road. With a busy schedule, committing to any healthy eating plan is a challenge. Some weeks it is impossible to eat at home every night but don’t be discouraged. A new study declares “eating out is figure-friendly.”
An article in last week’s Better Health section of the AJC revealed the findings of a study of 35 healthy women between the ages of 40 and 59. They were surprised to find that these women actually lost weight by consuming 300 fewer calories a day eating out.
Dining out sometimes can’t be avoided. If you eat less and make wise menu choices you can still stick to a healthy plan. Usually restaurant portions are double what an average person should eat. Save money and calories and consider getting the appetizer portion or splitting a meal with the person you are with.
The next time you are on the road look for a Wendy’s. When we were “purifying,” we were able to adhere to the plan guidelines and order a plain baked potato. Potatoes are filling and full of vitamins especially if you eat the skin.
Chick-fil-a options can also be healthy. A garden salad with grilled chicken is a good choice. Be careful of the dressings, they are full of fat and calories. Because I’m not a fan of low-fat or fat-free options, I top my salad with a small sized coleslaw. It acts as a dressing and gives you another serving of veggies.
These days most fast food chains have salad options. As long as you don’t use an entire packet of dressing, you will probably be consuming less than 500 calories.
If you can’t step foot in a McDonald’s without ordering fries, then either don’t go to McDonald’s, OR – opt for the small size. If you crave a combination meal, order a kids meal. You will be consuming about the same amount of calories as a salad if you don’t drink a sugary soda with it.
Never, ever choose the supersize option. Instead opt for small portions only, unless it is a serving of fruits and vegetables! I was so excited when DQ started serving mini-blizzards. I don’t feel like a pig when I eat one, yet I still enjoy just enough of my favorite sinful sweet treat. If you are eating anything larger than a small, you only really taste and enjoy the first four or five bites. What a waste.
Try to avoid eating while driving. In order to eat your food slowly and mindfully, it may be necessary for you to dine inside the restaurant. Eating while driving is not only dangerous, but when you eat quickly you are unable to listen to fullness signals from the brain.
Most importantly, plan ahead. When you are desperate you are more likely to make those unhealthy food choices.
Comments or questions email: suzanne_mcginnis@bellsouth.net.