1. You get more than what you pay for. When eating in a restaurant, you’ll tend to get full faster. This is because restaurant foods typically have more fat and calories, which will keep you full for longer.
2. Eat what you want.  Whichever part of the meal you’re looking forward to the most, eat that dish. Don’t force yourself through an appetizer if the main dish is what you really want, or vice versa.   
3. You don’t have to clean your plate. It’s a fact that people will usually eat more when given more. Restaurants can serve up to six times the recommended serving size. Only eat as much as your stomach says it can handle.  
4. Start with a “to-go” box. At the beginning of the meal, ask for a box and put part of your meal away to enjoy on another day. This will prevent you from overeating, and it will also provide you with a meal on another day, stretching the dollars you’re spending on the meal.  
5. Keep dessert in mind. If you know beforehand that you’re going to get a dessert, eat a lighter meal, or set more aside to take home. Consider splitting the dessert if you know you only need a few bites to be satisfied.
6. Know the sales language. Certain words are used to make things more appealing (and are usually unhealthy). Watch out for: fried, breaded, battered, crispy, creamed, Au gratin, buttered sauce, stuffed with cheese, or in its own gravy.

For many more tips about restaurant eating, check out “Carb Counting in Restaurants”, item # 4524 at www.ncescatalog.com or in our catalog.