Do you feel guilty when you eat out rather than at home? Does the phrase “eating out often recently” have a negative connotation to you? I cannot tell you the amount of conversations I’ve had just in the past week with clients where this topic has come up! So often when people are telling me they have been eating out, they look disappointed in themselves/embarrassed as they tell me this. But here’s the thing. Eating out does not automatically mean we are making unhealthy choices. It is true that we may be unaware of how much sodium, fat, hidden added sugars are in certain items especially when out to eat with no nutrition label available. And it is true that many menu items may be much higher in calories or larger portions than our body may be asking for. But it is also true that we can make wise, nutritionally balanced choices at many restaurants and food joints these days!

As a dietitian when people tell me they have been eating out a lot, I don’t just assume less nutritious choices are being made. We talk in detail about what exactly is being ordered, how much is being eaten, and what overall patterns look like. And while I love helping people find ways to plan ahead and eat from home more often (to help with saving money, too!), I have many conversations about how we can create better habits while eating out as well. Because sometimes that’s just a part of life. And that is okay! We never have to judge ourselves for our food choices, including if we are in a season of eating out frequently. However, if you need some tips on how to make nutritionally sound choices while out or if you need ideas to help with eating at home more, we are here! 937-586-7644.

By: Julia Blackford RDN, LD