When you chose to eat out, you have little to no control on the amount of food you eat. If you are at a buffet then the mere sight of tempting delights makes you eat more than you normally would on a general occasion. The variety of food, the preparation and the portions are left to fate with you having little to no control on it. If you are eating at a fast food restaurant then there are few chances that you are not eating fried foods and salty foods. You may not be able to eat the healthiest foods and may lead to indulging in certain foods that you should not indulge in.

There are a few things you can do to make a few healthy choices when you eat out.

To start with, if possible always choose the small or medium size dish. You will feel equally full with a small and need not opt for a large dish.

If you are not sure about the amount of calories or fats in the dish then you can always ask the waiter. If he is not aware if it then the chef is the best bet.

You need not eat every course offered. Stop when you feel full. Avoid eating a dessert that is not fruit based. A fruit will help to even out the calories that you have eaten during the meal and a dessert that is not fruit based will only add more calories to your system. Order the dessert only if you are hungry and not because your body craves what some one else is eating.

Choose foods like salads and soups that are lighter on your stomach and are high in nutritional value. Ask for salad dressings to be served separately so that you can avoid the calories of the dressing.

Choose grilled, baked or steamed versions of food.

Share a huge platter of food that you would not be able to complete by yourself.