• Instead of french fries or other high fat side dishes , choose a baked potato , side salad , steamed vegetables or fresh fruit .
• If a “ lighter ” version is on the menu , choose it . This will cut calories and fat grams . For example , use light salad dressing instead of regular dressing .
• Watch for key words :
- Avoid foods described as : fried , breaded , basted , braised , au gratin , crispy , creamed , escalloped , pan-fried , sautéed , stewed , buttery , or stuffed – these types of foods are high in fat .
- Order foods that are : baked , steamed , broiled , grilled , roasted , or stir-fried to lessen the fat and calories .
• Ask to have foods cooked without butter or margarine .
• Don ’ t be afraid to ask for items that are not on the menu . Many restaurants will make special dishes or substitute one item for another .
• Order a la carte .
• Go easy on the alcohol . Wine or light beer are the best choices . If you are more than six months past surgery , drink only 1 drink then switch to water .
• Eat slowly , enjoy the ambience and socializing . It is not about the food !
• Many restaurants offer nutritional analyses of their food . Ask an employee for this or check out one of the following websites for a link to nutritional information for both sit-down and fast food restaurants .
• dwlz . com
• calorieking . com
• dietfacts . com \ fastfood . asp
• foodfacts . info
• healthydiningfinder . com
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Rev . 6 / 08 , 4 / 11 © Mount Carmel 2011