In today's busy world, getting a takeaway is a convenient option for many people. But sometimes, we worry about whether it's healthy or not. Don't worry! With some smart moves, you can enjoy your takeaway without feeling guilty and still keep your health in check. This guide will give you 10 top tips to make better choices when you're ordering takeaway so that every meal helps you stay healthy.
Plan Ahead for Healthy Options
Before you decide what to order, take a minute to think about it. You can search online for places that have healthy food you can get to go. You can use apps like Google Maps or Yelp and type in things like "healthy takeaway near me." This helps you find places that focus on good-for-you meals, making it easier to choose something nutritious for takeaway.
Opt for Whole Food Ingredients
When you're looking at the menu, pay attention to dishes made with whole foods. These are foods in their natural form, like fruits, veggies, lean meats, and whole grains. Check for words like "fresh," "organic," and "locally sourced" in the menu—they usually mean healthier choices.
Mindful Portion Control
A common problem with takeaway is getting too much food at once. To avoid this, you can go for smaller meals or share bigger ones with someone. You can also try getting sides or appetisers instead of a full meal to control your portions better.
Customise Your Order
Feel free to tweak your order to match your diet and health aims. Many restaurants are happy to make changes like swapping ingredients, choosing grilled over fried or asking for sauces on the side. Just let them know what you need, and you can enjoy a meal that fits your health goals perfectly.
Balance Your Plate
Try to make your meal balanced by getting different types of foods. You can aim for lean protein, healthy fats, complex carbs, and lots of veggies. For instance, if you're getting pizza, go for a thin crust with grilled chicken or shrimp, loads of veggies, and just a bit of cheese.
Be Mindful of Hidden Calories
Watch out for calories hiding in seemingly harmless dishes. Things like deep-fried food, creamy sauces, or lots of cheese can add up fast and wreck your healthy eating plans. Instead, you should go for grilled, baked, or steamed options and ask for sauces and dressings on the side so you can manage how much you have.
Drink Wisely
Remember to think about what you're drinking with your takeaway. You can choose water, unsweetened tea, or sparkling water over sugary sodas or high-calorie cocktails. If you really want something special, go for a small serving of your favourite drink, but make sure you don't overdo it.
Practice Mindful Eating
When you're having your takeaway, try to be mindful. Try to eat slowly, enjoy each bite, and listen to your body to know when you're full. Don't get distracted by things like TV or your phone, as they can make you eat without thinking. Being mindful helps you enjoy your food more and understand what your body needs.
Plan for Leftovers
You should try intentionally ordering extra so you'll have leftovers. This way, you'll have enough for another tasty meal for later, and you won't overeat during your first meal. Make sure to store leftovers in sealed containers and refrigerate them quickly to keep them fresh and safe to eat.
Don't Forget the Condiments
You should keep an eye on the toppings and sauces that come with your takeout—they can make a big difference in how healthy your meal is. You can go for more nutritious choices like salsa, guacamole, hummus, or mustard instead of mayo, ketchup, or creamy dressings. These options add flavour and texture without packing in extra calories or unhealthy fats.
Final Thoughts
By following these ten essential tips, you can tackle takeaway with confidence, making decisions that put your health first. Whether it's planning ahead, tailoring your orders, or eating mindfully, you can indulge in takeaway without any guilt. Every bite will be a step toward your health goals. So, when that craving hits, keep these tips in mind and relish the satisfaction of eating well, even when you're ordering a takeaway.
And if any of the takeaway restaurants has impressed you with their food and service, show your appreciation by nominating them for the upcoming Asia Restaurant and Takeaway Awards, the most prestigious award in the restaurant industry. To find out more, visit artauk.com.
