We all know part of being a classy co-ed is participating in social meals. We go out for brunch with our girls, evening dinners with boyfriends and share late night snacks with study groups. But as classy co-eds interested in fitness and nutrition, we are also aware of the dangerous and unwholesome foods we could be putting into our bodies. CL offers all classy readers the four best tips on how to eat out and stay healthy.

How many calories are you drinking?

As Web MD explains, water is crucial to helping your body by controlling calories. It fills us up just the same as any other drink, but hydrates without adding anything extra.

Are the normal portions super-sized?

You can likely order a half-sized, or small, dish instead of the normal sized meal, which is also more affordable. Or split an entrée with your roomie: “ask your server to split the meal in the kitchen or divide it up yourselves at the table” as suggested by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Is your diet balanced?

Carbs make us bloated; it’s an unfortunate fact of life. Ordering an entrée with rice, a baked potato on the side and a slice of cheesecake for desert is not helpful in keeping off freshmen 15. Try ordering meat, veggies and one serving of carbs. Your tummy will love you!

How is the food prepared?

Do you typically find yourself ordering grilled or crispy chicken?  The American Cancer Society suggests choosing food preparations that avoid adding extra calories, such as all fried products. For example, try “steamed vegetables with a slice of lemon… a baked potato with a pat of butter or small amount of sour cream. Top with broccoli, low-fat chili, or salsa.”

Eating out is always a fun social experience, and it will be healthy for your bod if you follow these fabulous tips!

For more advice on all that is classy in nutrition and first semester advice check CL’s Guide to Healthy Midterm Snacks!