Portion sizes
Restaurants often serve larger portions than what you’d typically eat at home. These big portions can trick you into eating more than you need, even if you’re already full. It’s easy to consume extra calories without even realizing it because the portions are just so big!
Hidden Calories
Many dishes at restaurants have hidden calories from added sugars, fats, and sauces that you might not be aware of. For example, a salad might seem healthy, but the dressing could be loaded with sugar and fat. Also a seemingly simple grilled chicken might be cooked in a lot of butter or oil. These hidden extras can add up quickly, making it harder to stay within your calorie goal.
Less Control
When you eat out you have less control over the ingredients and cooking methods. This can make it harder to stick to a healthy eating plan. This means you can’t be sure how much oil, butter, or sugar is being used. Even dishes that seem healthy might be prepared in ways that add extra calories. At home, you can choose healthier cooking methods and control what goes into your meals.
Bonus Reason
A bonus reason why eating out can hinder your fat loss goals is because of temptation! When you’re at a restaurant, it’s super easy to be tempted by all the delicious, less healthy options on the menu. Even if you go in with the intention of eating something healthy, it can be hard to resist those tasty appetizers, deserts, or drinks. This can lead to making choices that aren’t great for your fat loss goals.
It’s not like you can NEVER eat out, just be mindful of what you are eating when you are out. Remember not everything on the menu is 100% true. Try to limit eating out to be able to cook at home more! Plus eating at home will also save you money, so you are winning two battles at once!
