How to Eat Healthy at a Dinner Buffet: Tips and Tricks
Going out for a dinner buffet can be a fun and enjoyable experience. It can be difficult to make healthy choices when you are presented with a wide range of food options. However, eating healthy and enjoying a dinner buffet are not mutually exclusive. Buffets offer a variety of dishes to accommodate all sorts of preferences and dietary needs. In this post, we have compiled some helpful tips and tricks to help you make healthier choices at your next dinner buffet.
Do a Quick Survey
Most restaurant buffets have a range of dishes, and some stations may offer healthier options than others. So, before filling up your plate, take a walk around the buffet and survey everything that's on offer. By identifying the healthy options, you can devise a plan and prioritize foods that won't compromise your healthy eating habits. Look for fresh fruits, vegetables, salads, lean protein, and whole grains.
Start with a Salad
Start filling your plate with a healthy salad. Choose fresh greens and add plenty of colorful vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Go easy on the dressing or opt for a drizzle of oil and vinegar.
Choose Lean Proteins
Protein is an important part of a healthy diet, but it's easy to get carried away when you're at a dinner buffet. To ensure you're making healthy choices, choose lean protein sources such as grilled or baked meats. Avoid fried or breaded options, and avoid gravies and rich sauces.
Opt for Grilled or Steamed
Many side dishes are high in calories and low in nutrition. Instead of choosing fried or cheesy sides, opt for baked, roasted, grilled, or steamed vegetables and baked potatoes. These options are not only healthier but provide you with essential nutrients as well.
Be Mindful of Portions
One of the biggest temptations at a dinner buffet is overeating. To avoid overeating, make sure you're mindful of your portions. Take small amounts of each item and avoid going back for seconds. If you're still hungry after your first plate, go back for more vegetables, protein, or fruit.
Drink Water or Unsweetened Beverages
One of the most overlooked aspects of eating healthy at a dinner buffet is your choice of beverages. Instead of sodas or alcohol, drink water or unsweetened tea. These options will hydrate you and help you avoid the added calories and sugars in other drinks.
Eating healthy at a dinner buffet can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Fill up on veggies and lean proteins, skip rich sauces, and stay hydrated. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a dinner buffet while maintaining a healthy diet.
Contact a local restaurant to learn more about dinner buffets.