Center City District Restaurant Week is kicking off Jan. 22-27 and January 29 to Febuary 3. Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia offer the following 10 tips for eating heart-healthy while you’re dining out.
We are proud to be a sponsor of CCD Restaurant Week. Dine out with a meal your heart will love.
Finding a heart-healthy meal is simple if you know what to look for. Foods on the menu that are fried, pan-fried, crispy, creamed or buttered are typically high in saturated fats and cholesterol. Look for healthier cooking options, which include dishes that are baked, grilled, broiled or roasted. They’re lower in fat and calories.
Unsure about how the food on the menu is prepared or what its ingredients are? Don’t be embarrassed to ask your server for clarification on menu items.
If a meal comes with fries, ask for a healthier alternative like a side salad, baked potato or vegetable instead.
Ask if the chef can prepare your food to order. Check if your meal can be made with very little butter or oil, or none at all.
The American Heart Association recommends limiting consumption of high-sodium foods. Try to avoid meals that are prepared pickled, smoked or made in broths, soy and teriyaki sauces. You can also ask you server to have your dish prepared without any added salt.
Request dressings, gravies and other sauces be served on the side so that you can control how much you consume. A better option is to skip condiments completely. Many are very high in fat, calories and sodium.
If the portions are large enough, share your meal with your dining partner to cut down on the calorie intake.
Have a sweet tooth? You don’t have to give up desserts completely. Healthier options like fruit, sorbets and sherbets can satisfy your sweet cravings. These alternatives have fewer calories than the traditional, high-fat pastries and ice creams.
Try not to order too many appetizers or fill up on bread and butter before the main course. This results in extra fat, sodium and calories.
Make it only one or two drinks. Alcohol in moderation, such as a glass of red wine has been shown to have heart benefits. Too much alcohol, on the other hand, is never a good idea for your heart and overall health.
Respecting your heart, and appreciating how it does its very important work, is the first step in maintaining its healthy functionality.
TAKE THE TOUR