Today, many restaurants offer delicious, low-fat, low-cholesterol meals. Eating less fat (especially saturated fat) and cholesterol is important, because a diet high in saturated fat raises blood cholesterol. High blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart attack. Eating less sodium is important for almost everyone, especially sodium-sensitive people. Too much sodium can raise blood pressure, which is also a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
These practical tips will help you make great choices, even before you order:
• If you're familiar with the menu, decide what you'll order before you enter the restaurant. That will help you avoid the temptation of ordering something that won't pamper your heart.
• If you're trying a new place, take some time to study the menu. This will help you avoid making split-second - and often regrettable - decisions.
• If your companions don't mind, have the server remove unneeded temptations, such as butter.
• Drink two full glasses of water before your food arrives.
• Avoid foods described in the following way: buttery, buttered, fried, pan-fried, creamed, escalloped, au gratin or a la mode.
• Good bread-basket choices are melba toast and whole-grain rolls. Avoid higher-fat muffins and croissants, and skip the butter or margarine.
