By: Gregg Avedon

Set the Course
I hear a lot of excuses for not eating properly. The most frequent: "I'm never home." You have clients to entertain. Your neighbors are having a barbecue. And there's never anything healthy to eat at these places. I'm not buying it. My line of work sends me on the road several times each month, often to remote locations. I know how unhealthy food tempts you outside your kitchen. Here's what I do:

1. Always Warm Up.

Depending on the prospects at the restaurant I'm going to, I eat a small snack, such as a tuna sandwich, oatmeal, or a protein shake, or even a large meal a couple of hours prior. You'll keep your blood sugar from dipping, remain relaxed, and eat moderately instead of pouncing on the bread basket.



2. Decode the menu.

Ask how dishes are made. Chicken's great, right? But chicken Parmesan is breaded and fried before it's baked. Sauces can contain more sodium than I normally eat in a week. Order the sauce on the side so you can control the amount you take in.



3. When in doubt, order a salad.

Look for salads with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp, and vegetables. Limit the cheese, croutons, and bacon bits. I also avoid sliced meats--most are highly processed--unless there's fresh- baked turkey breast sliced off the bone. Again, have dressing on the side, and dip your fork into it every few bites.



4. Fear not the dessert tray.

Don't spoil the party--indulge with the rest of your table. I order sorbet and a cup of coffee. Let them have their double chocolate fudge cake.