Let's see. You're about to embark on a weekend outing with your grandchildren and you're worried about sticking to your diet? Well, you don't have to pack a lunch to eat healthy. There are options when you are dining out.

Many popular restaurants now offer health-sensitive menus, and even fast-food restaurants have caught on to the current health craze. Many are now preparing foods that contain less fat, sugar, and salt — and they've added special menus offering appetizing alternatives to the usual fried fare. However, you may have to do a bit of searching for some of these alternatives; for example, look for heart-healthy markings on menus. But that's not all. Here's what else you should know.

You Are What You Eat

It is possible to eat right at a restaurant that does not offer "healthy" options specifically. You can:

• Stay clear of foods that are breaded or deep-fried.
• Request that sauces, gravies, and condiments be put on the side.
• Order meats (preferably chicken and fish) grilled, baked, boiled, or steamed.
• Watch out for hidden fats in some prepared specialty salads, including the classic Caesar, which includes grated cheese and a fatty dressing.
• Be careful of the fat you may be adding to your green salad when you add dressing. Make your salad from the salad bar and hold the dressing, substituting lemon and unsaturated oil. And be careful. Items like hard-boiled eggs and cheeses have high amounts of fat, salt, and cholesterol.
• Order a baked potato and hold the butter, salt, and sour cream. Keep the chives and request low-fat or no-fat sour cream.
• Ask for nutritional information whenever possible. Most places will be more than happy to provide it.

Getting to the Size of the Matter

In many American-style restaurants, "abundance" is a common theme, with portions tending to be extra large. For example, three ounces of red meat is the recommended serving — about the size of a deck of playing cards. In most eateries, you get far more than that, so be careful. To limit what you eat:

• Consider sharing portions with a friend.
• Ask for a doggie bag so you won't feel compelled to finish everything on your plate.
• Choose a meal from the children's menu — and give the kids the dessert!
• Instead of an entrée, try ordering a salad, a healthy appetizer and two side dishes, such as steamed vegetables and a baked potato.