So I did an Instagram TV about this, but wanted to also write about it. I’ve received a few messages inquiring on how to still be healthy if you’re eating out a lot. You may travel a lot for work, have a lot of client meetings that revolve around food, or simply have to be on the go all the time.

Some of the tricks I use or things I look for may seem a bit more obvious, but good to review nonetheless.

First off, try to pick a restaurant that has a variety of options or something that you know could be a little healthier than a fast food place or something similar. For example, Chipotle is a much better option than McDonald’s or a breakfast sandwich from a Starbucks with who knows what in it. Now, don’t be getting double sour cream and cheese/queso all over your chipotle, that kind of defeats the purpose.

Now if you’re going to a bit nicer sit-down place, then get on Yelp and see what’s around in whatever city you’re in, and cruise through the menus. Find something that has a wide variety, where the people you’re going to be with will have plenty of options to choose from. They may not want to be as healthy as you.

When eating out, avoid fried foods, sodas, and things that are simply soul food. There are times when it’s good to feed the soul and just enjoy yourself without worrying about it, but if you’re going out frequently due to your job/lifestyle, then you need to pick and choose your battles. Don’t always resort to the loaded up burger and fries. Look for a quality protein source, maybe a solid carb if you’re a bit low that day (rice, rice pilaf, couscous, quinoa, etc.) and some type of side veggie if they have it. A side of broccoli, veggies and hummus, side salad (and not one that’s all iceberg lettuce covered in Ranch).

If you look through the menu, find the red flags that jump out to you, then you have a better idea of what you’re going to go with. A Po’ Boy might not be as healthy as a fish of the day over a bed of rice and side of seasonal veggies. Again, pick and choose your battles, but you need to be more conscientious if you eat out frequently.