The average dinner out in a restaurant contains over 1,000 calories. How can you possibly lose weight if there are no diet menus in the restaurants that you frequent? It is possible and it can be done. Keeping fit is possible if you eat out a lot. It just requires ordering the right foods and staying away from the wrong ones.

Here are some tips on eating a healthy dinner in your favorite restaurant without relying on diet menus if they are not available.

Don't drink alcoholic beverages
That tip alone will save you a considerable number of calories. Instead, try sipping on an unsweetened iced tea (or sweeten it with a natural sweetener such as stevia or agave nectar). Better yet, water with some lemon squeezed into it or an herbal tea are your very best bets. When you consider the calories you will save by this simple practice, you will be glad you did!

Order a salad to start your meal
Salad is always your best bet. It will help you to fill up and avoid eating too much of your regular meal. And, you will be benefiting from the vitamins and antioxidants bountiful in the vegetables. It is important when watching your waist to ask your server to leave off any cheese or croutons to reduce the calories and fat. And, be sure to choose a dressing that is low calorie. Always choose a salad dressing that is vinegar based and avoid creamy dressings. Try olive oil and vinegar on the side with a squeeze of lemon. This is a heart healthy, low cal alternative.

Avoid ordering appetizers
It is true that some appetizers actually have more calories and fat than some main course dinner options. Many of them are served with fatty dipping sauces and fried in vegetable oils. This ensures you will be eating harmful saturated fats and trans fats not to mention more calories. If you are attempting to eat a healthy meal, an appetizer is not a good way to kick it off!

Choose your food wisely
Avoid fried foods altogether. Instead, opt for grilled or broiled entrees. Leave off the rice or mashed potato accompaniment and double your portion of vegetables. For optimal health, the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables is 5 or more. So many Americans do not get these servings and this is detrimental to good health. By leaving off the white starches, you will be reducing your simple carbohydrates, which help you to hold on to weight.

Don't order meals that are doused in cream-based sauces
Instead, opt for tomato based sauces. Always ask that your sauces be served on the side. Avoid cheesy, buttery meals as well. If you order pasta, try one that has a light sauce or simply cooked with olive oil and garlic.

Don't Eat Too Much
Many restaurants serve large quantities of food. If you find that your meal is massive, ask the server to split the portion in half and take the other half home with you. By doing this before you start to eat, you will not be tempted to eat too much.

Say No To Fattening Desserts
If you are set on having a treat after your meal, try a low carb or reduced fat option. Many restaurants offer choices such as low carb cheesecake that may be a good pick. If the dessert menu does not offer any lower calorie, lower fat options, skip it and enjoy a cup of coffee with skim milk. This will help to dampen your sweet tooth.

You can save yourself a load of calories by following your own diet menus and taking the time to order carefully and wisely. You don't have to ruin your waistline in order to have a meal out. You can get a tasty meal that is healthy if you make the right choices. Conscious eating is healthier anytime you eat!