Watch your cholesterol when dining out

(HealthDay News) -- If you're trying to lower your cholesterol, choose your menu options carefully when dining out.

Follow these guidelines when ordering meals at restaurants:

Choose dishes that are roasted, baked, grilled, stir-fried (in water or broth), broiled, poached or steamed instead of fried.
Choose low-fat substitutions for high-fat foods; request steamed vegetables instead of fries; skip toppings like butter and cream.
Order a broth-based soup as an appetizer, and place your order before others so you aren't tempted.
Cut the fat off of meat; choose seafood, chicken or lean meats.
Don't add salt to your food, and remember to eat slowly so you don't overeat and feel too full.
Choose fresh fruit for dessert.

Attribution: -- Diana Kohnle

Cleveland Clinic

First published: 02/28/2013
Last updated: 02/28/2013

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