Choosing Healthful Foods When Eating Out
Choosing low-sodium foods when eating out at restaurants , friends ’ homes , or parties can be a challenge . You can still eat low-sodium meals when eating out .
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Before going to a restaurant , check its website for a nutrition guide or ask for one when you arrive .
A sit-down restaurant usually has more low-sodium choices than a fast food restaurant .
Be specific about what you want and how you want your food prepared .
Order plain grilled meats or fish and steamed vegetables .
� Avoid foods that are described as fried , creamed , buttery , breaded , escalloped , au gratin , pickled , smoked , corned , or marinated .
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Choose foods that are steamed , broiled , or grilled .
Order sandwiches and other items without cheese .
Ask for the food to be prepared without seasonings and sauces that contain sodium .
Ask for salad dressing , sauce , and gravy on the side .
Choose plain fresh fruit or vegetables instead of chips and dips for appetizers .
Select plain meat sandwiches instead of egg salad , tuna salad , chicken salad , or luncheon meats .
Fluid Intake Guidelines
Some people with heart failure have fluid restrictions . Fluid restriction means limiting the total amount of fluid that you drink or eat during a 24-hour period . Ask your doctor how much fluid you can have each day . Many people with heart failure are limited to 8¼ cups of fluid , which is 2 liters or 66 ounces , every 24 hours .
� Fluids are foods and drinks that are liquid at room temperature . All drinks such as water , coffee , tea , pop , alcohol , milk , juice , and sport drinks are fluids . Nutritional drinks and milkshakes are also fluids .
� Food that is eaten when solid but is liquid at room temperature is also counted as fluid . This includes ice , ice cream , frozen yogurt , sherbet , and popsicles . Some food items that are not counted as fluid are nonfrozen yogurt , pudding , and cooked cereal .
Here are some tips to lessen your thirst :
� Nibble on frozen fruit , such as grapes .
� Suck on ice chips , not cubes .
� Cover your lips with petroleum jelly or other moisturizer .
� Suck on hard candy or suckers . � Chew gum .
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