Healthy food habit while studying is an important topic we learnt since the beginning of our school days. However, by the time we reach high school followed by college we lose our habit of healthy eating.
With packed schedules and the desire to hangout with friends, we end up eating out multiple times. These habits of eating out result in health issues. Also, healthy food habit is essential if you want to acquire high grades and effortlessly attain your goals.
However, what if we tell you that healthy food and eating out can be a combination. Yes! You read it right. We have ways to adapt healthy food habit even when dining out with friends.
Ways to Get into Healthy Food Habit
- Plan ahead of time and do some menu study
Take a few minutes before going out to lunch to study the menu of the restaurant you intend to visit. Most restaurants have their menus available online, which allows you to locate any healthy selections. You may also look up calorie and nutrition information to help you make more healthy food choices.
- Choose water over sugary beverages
One of the best tricks to eat healthy food is to choose water over every other drink. Sugary beverages, such as soda and sweetened iced tea, are high in calories and can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Choose water or unsweetened tea instead. Add a slice of lemon or lime to your water for flavour, or go for sparkling water.
- Look for lean protein sources
Students looking to adapt healthy food habit while studying must include more lean protein options. Protein is an essential component of a balanced diet.
However, certain protein sources are heavy in saturated fat and calories. Choose lean proteins such as grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or legumes. These selections are often fewer in calories and higher in nutrients.
- Instead of fries, get a side salad
French fries are a popular side dish at many restaurants. However, they are heavy in calories and saturated fat. The trick to eat healthy is to remove fries and add more salad with a mild dressing. You may also request extra veggies on your burger or sandwich, as well as a side of roasted vegetables or a baked potato.
- Select whole grain choices
Whole grain options such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, or quinoa are increasingly available in many eateries. These selections are richer in fibre and provide essential nutrients. Choose whole grain bread over white bread when ordering a sandwich or wrap. When ordering a stir-fry or a burrito, specify brown rice rather than white rice. Aren’t these tricks to eating healthy easy so far?
- Don’t be scared to experiment with different ingredients
Many restaurants are ready to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences by making substitutes. Don’t be hesitant to request a different side dish or a vegetable in place of a less healthful one. You can also request that your burger or sandwich be wrapped in lettuce rather than a bun, or that your salad be served without croutons or cheese.
- Have a Cup of Coffee Instead of Dessert
Skip dessert and order a coffee instead. As well as seriously cutting calories and added sugar, you’ll also get some of the great health benefits associated with coffee.
- Consider Your Entire Diet
There will be moments when you just want to consume your favourite dish without worrying about whether it is healthy or not. Although healthy food habit while studying is recommended, in diet and food choices has been related to improved general health and weight control. It’s useful to consider how a meal fits into your entire diet. Go ahead and indulge yourself if you generally follow healthy eating routines. An occasional indulgence can be beneficial to the soul.
To summarise, eating out might be difficult while attempting to maintain a healthy diet, but it is not impossible. You may have a nutritious lunch when dining out by planning ahead, making thoughtful selections, and asking for substitutes. Eating healthy is important and remember that tiny improvements may lead to significant effects over time, so choose healthier choices whenever feasible.
