I’m going to be honest with you – I’m not into cooking. The McDonald’s drive-thru window might be one of my favorite places. It is fast, convenient, and I am happy with the food I get. However, it is not always the best for my diet. Although, if you must eat out, there are ways to do so and still maintain a healthy diet. Here are some suggestions.

-If the restaurant offers an appetizer menu, order from it. Or, try ordering a side salad.

-Avoid too much pasta and try to only eat one entrée.

-It is easy to think, “I am eating protein, I’m ok.” However, fried chicken is not always healthy. Try a grilled, leaner option when you are dieting.

-Try asking the restaurant to boil something rather than frying it to cut down on the calories.

-Sauces and condiments add calories so be careful.

-Try to eat half the meal and take the rest home.

-Do you research before you go to a restaurant so you know what the healthiest options are and you can pick the best choice for you.

-Avoid buffets because you will just overeat.

Everyone will ultimately have to eat out at some point while dieting. It is possible to find a healthy option and still enjoy your experience.

If you have not heard of Blue Zones, than you are in for a fascinating read. Blue Zones are regions of the world that contain people who are over the age of 100 years old, living active lives. Researchers and Scientists around the world have studied these regions and they have classified the people that live in them by their unique ability to live a longer life than the rest of the world.

There have been five Blue Zones discovered – Sardinia, Italy, Okinawa, Japan, Loma Linda, California, Nicoya, Peninsula, Icaria, Greece. From the research collected on these areas, scientist determined certain characteristics that contributed to the longevity of their lives.

First, all areas emphasized the family. It was their top priority above everything else. Additionally, no one smoked. The inhabitants in these communities all shared a plant-based diet. And, they all engaged in moderate physical activity on a regular basis. Furthermore, they were social with others, providing for fulfillment and happiness. And, lastly, they used legumes.

Although you might not be able to switch your lifestyle over completely to a lifestyle like theirs, there are certain characteristics that they implemented that may be beneficial to promoting better health and a longer life. Try a few.