Released March 6, 2009
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. —
1. Don't. Recent estimates show that Americans spend at least half their food dollars for meals purchased away from home. While it's no longer realistic to expect American families not to eat out at all, doing so less frequently is one way to reduce expenses in tough economic times. Regardless of what some people think, it is less expensive and healthier to prepare food at home, and, with advance planning, it does not have to be time-consuming.
2. Plan ahead. Eating out is usually done on impulse because there was little or no time to shop or cook. Help your family think of eating out as a special treat and an activity to look forward to and plan. Don't think of it as deprivation, but rather as a way to help the family develop good health habits and money management skills.
3. Drink water. Beverages can add several dollars to the price of the meal. Drinking water when eating out is good way to consume some of the water needed daily, to save money and reduce calorie consumption.
4. When possible, eat out at breakfast, lunch or early afternoon when lunch menu prices are still in effect.
5. Use menus creatively and compare prices of items. Appetizer portions of some items will be less expensive and the same size as the entree with side items. Adding a side salad or a similar item to an appetizer is often enough food and less expensive than the entrée.
6. Share entrees with a friend or family member. This is a great way to avoid overeating and save money. You may want to split the main item and order an extra side salad.
7. Skip desserts. A half-gallon of low-fat ice cream or yogurt can be purchased at the grocery store for less than the price of one dessert at a restaurant.
8. Many fast food restaurants have dollar menus. These items are usually smaller versions of those on the main menu, but are adequate for many people.
9. Use coupons when available for restaurants that you enjoy. Coupons can often be found in newspapers, direct mailings, on restaurant Web sites or e-mail sometimes sent by the restaurant.
10. Take half home. Restaurant meals often include enough food (and calories) for two meals. One tactic recommended to individuals trying to control their weight is to ask for a take-out box when the food is served. Putting half of the portions into the box before eating the meal is a good way to practice portion control. Take the other half of the meal for lunch the next day or serve it for dinner. Plan ahead by taking a cooler or insulated bag with ice or frozen gel packs to keep food safe.
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Contact: Shirley Whitten, (256) 532-1578
