1 Check out the restaurant beforehand if possible, to make sure that high-carbohydrate, low-fat meals are available, or that it will honor special requests.
2 Inquire how dishes are prepared and request that they be made without added fat and/or sodium. Most places will honor such requests.
3 Look for dishes on the menu with the words broiled, baked, steamed, poached, or grilled, in its own juice.
4 Go for extra breads, vegetables, rice, potatoes and noodles, but hold the butter, margarine, cream sauces and gravies.
5 Ask for dressing on the side, and use sparingly.
6 Eat only half- to three-quarters of oversized portions, and take the rest home or share it.
7 Eat the less-than-healthiest item if you really want it, but split it with a friend.
8 Trim visible fat from meat.