On the town but in shape

WASHINGTON (Map, News) - Dining out without weight gain may soon be a reality.

The National Restaurant Association launched a Web site Wednesday, HealthyDiningFinder.com, which provides users with healthy menu choices from nearly 30,000 restaurants around the United States.

“I think this site will give consumers a chance to make an informed decision and encourage restaurants to offer healthier options so they can be included on the site,” said Jennifer Christman, registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager at Greater Baltimore Medical Center.

Numerous factors work against healthy eaters when dining out, Christman said.

“Eating out is hard because you have such a lack of control over what is actually in your food. Cooks tend to add a lot of salt and fat — melted butter and cream — for flavor.” Additionally, according to Christman, the smells and presentation tempt diners to overeat, and portions are expanding.

When looking at a menu, Christman suggest selecting foods that are baked or broiled and requesting steamed vegetables for a side dish.

Beginning your meal with “a clear soup, nothing cream-based, will help fill you up.”

She also suggests skipping the bread basket and splitting your meal in half, taking home a portion to eat later.

According to the NRA, Americans dine out an average of four to five times a week. For more information about eating healthy at restaurants, visit HealthyDiningFinder.com.

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