ANSWERS: 1
  • It is hard enough to stick to your diet at home, but eating out with friends or family makes it that much more difficult. The important thing to know is that there are low-fat and low-sugar options at almost every restaurant, and Mexican restaurants are certainly no exception. Although you may equate Mexican restaurants with filling and hearty meals, you can order carefully and eat a light meal that will keep you within your diet's guidelines.

    Ordering Smart

    The first obstacle in a Mexican restaurant is the chips and salsa that are put down in front of you right after you sit down. Stay away from them. Although the salsa is fine, the chips will quickly throw you off your diet. Don't even have one, as it is harder to stop after one than it is not to eat them at all. Feel free to use the salsa with your meal. The next step is the drink order. Margaritas are probably the most common drink in Mexican restaurants, but stay away from them too. They are full of calories and sugar. Stick with water, as it is your best bet and will allow you to use your calories on the food. As you look through the menu you will notice that most dishes are combinations, and are served with beans and rice. Although beans and rice on their own are not bad, they may be cooked with lard or lots of oil and the beans most likely have cheese in them. Order a la carte and skip the beans and rice. See what your other options are. Steamed vegetables would be ideal, as would a light soup with chicken and vegetables. Some Mexican restaurants have healthy substitutions such as brown rice or low-fat beans. Make sure you look on the menu for the healthy choices, or ask your server. For your entree, go toward items with chicken or fish rather than red meat. A chicken enchilada with no cheese and a red enchilada sauce with no cream would be perfect. Chicken fajitas with grilled vegetables are another good option, or fish tacos with no sour cream or guacamole. Whatever you order should be without sour cream or guacamole; you can substitute salsa, which is delicious and healthy. Don't be afraid to ask how the dish is prepared and make substitutions when necessary. When the meal arrives at your table, if the portion looks large ask for a takeout box and put half away immediately for a nice lunch the next day. Dessert is the final hurdle. If your dining mates are forgoing the dessert as well, you won't have a problem. If they decide to order and you feel the need to have something, see if a fruit cup or low-fat frozen yogurt is an option. Never be afraid to ask; maybe they have something that is not on the menu.

    Source:

    Restaurant Eating Tips

    Survival Guide to Eating Out at a Mexican Restaurant

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