Carroll County's tips on eating out

Carroll County, Maryland is right on the Mason-Dixon line, on the way to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. They have some fine continental and local cuisine restaurants and it's easy to overdo it there!

They know that and have put out a pamphlet to encourage people to eat healthy at restaurants. Here are some of their tips:

Have sauces served on the side.

Choose lighter salad dressings or vinaigrettes, served on the side.

Go for foods that are baked, broiled, roasted, grilled -- anything other than fried.

Select broth-based soups.

Have tomato or vegetable toppings on pasta.

Go easy on the cheese.

Limit bread, chips, or whatever is in the basket while you await your meal.

Order fresh fruit or fruit sorbet for dessert.

Choose grilled chicken or lean meat sandwiches.

Hold the french fries, substitute a side salad, but easy on the dressing.

Choose simply prepared foods without lots of extra ingredients and calories.

Enjoy as many simply prepared vegetables as you like.

Keep portions small.

Enjoy a salad and an appetizer in place of an entree, or take home half your meal for tomorrow's lunch.