Sip smart. A beer has around 150 calories, and science says that drinking it in
moderation can reduce your heart attack risk. Wine has about 125 calories, plus
artery-friendly antioxidants. A piña colada? You could be looking at more than
650 calories and 80 grams of sugar.
Slow down to really savour. One of the best parts of being on vacation is the
luxury of time, so you can actually stop to enjoy meals instead of shovelling
them down during a five-minute break. Even if you have a heavy day of
sightseeing ahead, block off an hour for a real lunch break.
Go halfsies. You’ll get to sample more if you split dishes. At restaurants, Lisa
and I like to share two appetizers and a big main course, then have cappuccinos
for dessert.
Go ahead, have that dessert. Just stick to one treat a day, and make it really
phenomenal. Continental buffets will try to break you with the standard
blueberry muffins and pastries, but just remember, you’re holding out for
something special. Which would you rather have: a stale muffin, or an
exceptional slice of cherry pie à la mode later in the day?
Work produce into every meal. It doesn’t have to be a side salad—though you
know me, I won’t say no to a salad. Get creative: If you’re having barbecue,
choosing a side of spring greens over mac and cheese could save you 150
calories. Topping pizza with peppers instead of sausage can lop off 50 calories a
slice. Add chopped apple to your morning porridge. And opting for dark
chocolate–dipped strawberries instead of a sundae can shave off hundreds of
calories, and net you a dose of fibre and antioxidants.
Environment 3: Eating Out
I’m a big fan of home cooking, but everyone likes a restaurant night, and
deserves one. In fact, Lisa and I have a weekly night out—she gets a break from
cooking and we get to try some dishes we might not make for ourselves at home.
Everyone wins.
It’s true that restaurants are famous for sneaking extra butter and other fats,
salt, and sugars into their foods, but if you order wisely, you can avoid those
traps. I’ve rounded up a list of healthy restaurant choices you can enjoy without