It's actually easier than you think to make good choices at a fast-food restaurant, the mall, or even the school cafeteria. Most cafeterias and fast-food places offer healthy choices that are also tasty, like grilled chicken or salads. Be mindful of portion sizes and high fat add-ons, like dressings, sauces or cheese. Here are some pointers to remember that can help you make wise choices when eating out:

GO FOR BANLANCE. Choose meals that contain a balance of lean proteins (like fish, chicken, or beans if you're a vegetarian), fruits and vegetables (fries and potato chips don't qualify as veggies!), and whole-grains (like whole wheat bread and brown rice). That's why a turkey sandwich on whole wheat with lettuce and tomato is a better choice than a cheeseburger on a white bun.

WATCH PORTION SIZES. The portion sizes of American foods have increased over the past few decades so that we are now eating way more than we need. The average size of a hamburger in the 1950s was just 1.5 ounces, compared with today's hamburgers, which weigh in at 8 ounces or more.

DRINK WATER. Regular sodas, juices, and energy drinks usually contain "empty" calories that you don't need — not to mention other stuff, like caffeine.

RESTAURANT SURVIVAL TIPS:
• Ask for sauces and salad dressings on the side and use them sparingly.
• Use salsa and mustard instead of mayonnaise or oil.
• Ask for olive or canola oil instead of butter, margarine, or shortening.
• Use nonfat or lowfat milk instead of whole milk or cream.
• Order baked, broiled, or grilled (not fried) lean meats including turkey, chicken, seafood, or sirloin steak.
• Salads and vegetables make healthier side dishes than french fries. Use a small amount of sour cream instead of butter if you order a baked potato.
• Choose fresh fruit instead of sugary, high-fat desserts.