You Should Really Avoid These Foods When You're Eating Out
Dining out is one of life's greatest pleasures. There's nothing quite like sitting back, ordering off a menu, and letting someone else do the cooking (and the dishes). But amidst restaurant menus, some sneaky dishes lurk that might not be doing your health—or your waistline—any favours. Thus, here are 25 foods you might want to think twice about ordering, all in the name of keeping things light, fun, and slightly more healthy.
1. Loaded Nachos
Oh, nachos! A towering monument of cheesy, crunchy goodness. But beware, these little bites can pack a day's worth of calories in one sitting. Topped with heaps of cheese, sour cream, and sometimes chilli, they're a sneaky source of fats and calories. Opt for a side of salsa instead; your heart will thank you.
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2. Cream-Based Soups
Creamy soups seem like a warm hug in a bowl, but they're often hiding a secret: a ton of butter, cream, and calories. They can be more dessert than appetizer, nutritionally speaking. Try a broth-based soup for a lighter start to your meal.
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3. Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is like that smooth-talking ex; it promises so much but leaves you feeling a bit heavy. The creamy sauce is loaded with butter, cheese, and cream. A tomato-based pasta can be just as comforting without the calorie commitment.
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4. Deep-Fried Anything
Deep-fried delicacies are tempting, but they're often dressed in a coat of unhealthy fats. From calamari to cheese sticks, these crispy critters are best enjoyed sparingly. Your arteries will thank you for choosing grilled or baked options.
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5. Cheeseburger with All the Fixings
A loaded cheeseburger is a staple of the American diet, but it's also a calorie bomb, especially with bacon, cheese, and special sauces.
Swap it out for a turkey burger or a veggie burger for a lighter touch on the classic.
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6. Buffalo Wings
Buffalo wings are finger-lickin' good, but they're usually deep-fried and slathered in a buttery hot sauce. For a healthier kick, look for baked wings or stick to the celery sticks.
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7. Cheesecake
Cheesecake is the siren of the dessert menu, but it's dense with cream cheese and sugar. Savouring a fruit sorbet might not sound as decadent, but your body will appreciate the lighter fare.
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8. Meat Lover's Pizza
Meat lover's pizza is a carnivore's dream, but it's also a stealthy way to consume a day's worth of saturated fat. A veggie pizza with a thin crust offers a tasty and more balanced alternative.
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9. Caesar Salad with Creamy Dressing
Even salads can be tricky! A Caesar salad drenched in a creamy dressing, topped with croutons and cheese, can rival a burger for calories. Ask for the dressing on the side for a healthier twist.
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10. Margaritas
Margaritas may scream fun in the sun, but they're often loaded with sugar and calories, especially the frozen kind. A glass of wine or a light beer is a more waist-friendly choice.
11. BBQ Ribs
BBQ ribs are mouthwateringly delicious but marinated in sugary sauces and served in massive portions.
Opt for grilled chicken or fish with a side of BBQ sauce for flavour without the guilt.
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12. Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are the ultimate comfort food, but they're essentially deep-fried cheese. For a cheesy fix without the fry, try a caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
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13. Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy calorie bomb. Opt for pasta with a lighter garlic and olive oil base to satisfy your carb cravings more healthfully.
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14. Giant Burritos
Giant burritos are often overstuffed with rice, beans, cheese, and sour cream, making them a day's worth of calories in one meal. Choose a burrito bowl with lots of veggies and lean protein instead.
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15. Pecan Pie
Pecan pie is a sugar and calorie-packed dessert, often because of its corn syrup and sugar filling. Try a slice of fresh fruit pie with a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter end to your meal.
16. Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy are a Southern comfort classic, but they're also a heavy way to start the day, loaded with sausage fat and butter. A veggie omelet can be just as comforting and much lighter.
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17. Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-good, but it's also coated in calories.
Opt for roasted or grilled chicken for a healthier yet still satisfying option.
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18. French Fries
French fries are the quintessential side, but they're also a fast track to consuming a lot of oil and salt. Sweet potato fries or a side salad are healthier companions to your entrée.
19. Milkshakes
Milkshakes might bring all the boys to the yard, but they also bring a ton of sugar and fat. A fruit smoothie can be just as sweet and much more refreshing.
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20. Bacon Mac and Cheese
Bacon mac and cheese is comfort food heaven, but it's heavy on saturated fats. For a lighter take, try whole-grain pasta with a sprinkle of real cheese and veggies.
Image by Amanda Whitlatch from Pixabay
21. Onion Rings
Onion rings are a crispy, crunchy side, but they're often battered and fried. Look for grilled veggies or a side salad for a crunchy, healthier option.
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22. Chocolate Lava Cake
Chocolate lava cake is a decadent dessert, but it's also a volcano of calories. Opt for a dark chocolate mousse or a small piece of dark chocolate for your cocoa fix.
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23. Quesadillas
Quesadillas can be loaded with cheese and sour cream, making them more indulgent than you might think. Choose one filled with veggies and lean protein for a healthier twist.
24. Caramel Frappuccino
Caramel Frappuccino is a sweet treat, but it's more dessert than drink, loaded with sugar and calories. A plain coffee with a splash of milk can satisfy your caffeine craving without the sugar spike.
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25. Pancakes with Syrup
Pancakes with syrup are a breakfast favourite, but they can start your day with a sugar overload. Opt for whole-grain pancakes topped with fresh fruit for a sweet but healthier start.
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