Eating out AGAIN? If eating out is a regular part of your weekly regime, look for choices that fit your healthy eating plan. Remember, no matter what you choose, you don’t have to shop for the food, cook it or clean up afterwards. The food will be well-presented no matter what you choose, and you can enjoy the company the same way.

So, soak up the atmosphere, not the fat. Here’s how:

• be wary of starters. They are often loaded in fat. Guaranteed to spoil your appetite and add extra calories
• order sauces and salad dressings on the side to control the amount of fat
• order clear soups, broths or tomato-based soups instead of chowders or cream soups
• watch out for the bread and butter that teases you while you’re waiting for your order to arrive. Ask for veggie sticks instead
• choose broiled, baked, roasted, poached, steamed or barbecue over fried or breaded
• limit high-fat items such as cheese, oil, bernaise sauce or gravy in half
• order an extra helping of veggies
• limit buffets (the temptation to overeat is inevitable). If you go, scan the table first before loading your plate; make the first plate a salad with dressing on the side, and the second your well-chosen entrée
• add milk instead of cream to your coffee or tea
• and Enjoy!