Fit Fare

Dining out while using the principles of smart carbohydrate eating can be difficult. Breads, rice, and pasta are all readily available to accompany most meals at most restaurants. But three major things have changed since I first started watching my carb intake three years ago:

1. Members of the wait staff often ask if we want bread (and seconds, too!), rather than automatically assuming that we want it.
2. Many chain restaurants have options of vegetables for sides instead of potatoes and pasta.
3. Another boost for chain restaurants is the availability of nutrition information online. Planning for a smart carb meal ahead of time makes ordering easier and faster.

One of the remaining trouble spots in dining out lies in breakfast options. Obviously, carb-rich pancakes, waffles, and French toast are out, but there is another problem. Most restaurants still offer two sides with their breakfasts, usually carb-rich potatoes, toast, or fruit in one form or another.

Another problem is knowing which ethnic foods are better for carb control. Asian food often has too much added sugar even without rice, while Mediterranean food provides a good option with an emphasis on lean meat and fish rather than heavy pasta and rice.

Remember that ultimately, decisions about what to eat are up to you. You have every right to refuse what you don’t want to eat, as in the case of those carb-filled breakfasts, or to take home leftovers to maintain portion control.