This is a simple guide to some kinds of popular foods that people often choose when they eat out.

Chinese (and Asian food generally) offers a wide variety of broth-based soups, stir-fried treats, steamed fish and vegetable dishes, rice, chow mien, and other menu items that delicious low-calorie and low fat choices.

There are of course many foods that you should avoid as well. Fried egg rolls, fried wontons, dishes made with duck, egg foo yung, and fried chicken should not be ordered if you're trying to eat healthy. It isn't that they are bad dishes; they simply tend to have more fat and salt in them than the others. Fried rice should be replaced by steamed rice. The all-you-can-eat buffet should be avoided at all costs (regardless of what type of food).

If you are lucky enough to have a good quality restaurant with Indian Cuisine, you have a number of delicious healthy, low-fat options to choose from. Chicken, fish, veggies, steamed rice; legumes are included in healthy dishes throughout the menu. Bean soups are delicious and healthy. You can opt for Chapati, Chicken or Shrimp Vindaloo, or Lamb kabobs. The main dishes to exclude when dining out in the Indian Restaurants are the fried breads, dishes served with large amounts of nuts and dishes made with coconut milk. Overall, Indian cuisine is a wonderful dining option when you are watching what you eat.

Some of the most fattening dishes you could possibly dream of are found in Italian Restaurants. Fried Mozzarella sticks, Lasagna, thick creamy Alfredo pasta dishes and many others cloud your judgment when skimming over the menu. However, you will also find many healthy dishes to make your mouth water as well. Thin crust pizza with vegetable toppings, pasta with tomato-based sauces, chicken cacciatore, chicken Marsala, and biscotti are a few items that will keep you at the Italian table without having to give up your commitment to cut calories and watch fat intake. Salads and soup choices are also something to consider. Avoid most deserts in the Italian Restaurants, most are just like the cheese dishes you find here, very rich.

You may have many opportunities to eat out with your wife and friends. It's important to remember that while you are watching you're weight, you don't have to exclude yourself from all of the great food available in quality restaurants. You simply need to pay attention to what you are eating and remember that moderation goes along way.