Healthy Breakfast Options at Restaurants

It is Sunday morning, and you are at the local diner. This week, you have made a resolution to eat healthy, but you are not sure what to pick from the menu. Usually, you have blueberry pancakes with eggs, hash browns and coffee. Making the decision to eat healthy may seem easier than deciding what to order for breakfast. Just remember that according to Harvard School of Public Health, a healthy breakfast helps you to maintain your weight and lowers your risk of heart disease.

Eating breakfast at a restaurant does not mean risking your health. (Image: GANCINO/iStock/Getty Images)

Eggs

Boiled eggs (Image: RomanKorytov/iStock/Getty Images)

Eggs are a healthy source of protein. Order boiled eggs and sprinkle a little salt on them for taste. For something different, try a poached egg -- essentially the yolk and white boiled in water. If you are looking to cut back on cholesterol, order an egg white omelet, but tell the cook to go light on the butter or to use cooking spray.

Fruit

Fruit salad (Image: chainatp/iStock/Getty Images)

Most restaurants have fruit available, especially fruit that is in season in your geographical area. Fresh fruit is your best option. Order it sliced in a bowl as a side dish, or order a fruit salad as your main breakfast meal. Sometimes, the kitchen may also blend the fruit with yogurt; just ask, even it it's not on the menu.

Bread

Whole wheat toast (Image: bhofack2/iStock/Getty Images)

Instead of white bread, order whole wheat. Ask for the butter and jam on the side. Remember to pay attention to portion sizes. Just because four slices are on your plate doesn't mean you have to eat them all.

Beverages

Herbal tea (Image: Image Source/Photodisc/Getty Images)

Instead of juice, drink water with a lemon wedge. Instead of coffee, try herbal tea. Another healthy breakfast drink is earl grey tea with lemon. If you must have coffee, use skim milk or try it black. Avoid sugar and artificial sweeteners. No matter what, make sure a glass of water is a part of your breakfast routine.

Dairy Products

Yogurt (Image: György Barna/iStock/Getty Images)

When you order breakfast, choose skim milk, skip the butter and ask for low-fat or nonfat yogurt. Dairy products abound in healthy calcium, but they can be loaded with fat. Use skim milk in your coffee or tea as well. Those little creamers that sit on the table are very high in fat.

Other Reminders

Start the day off right by ordering foods that will energize you -- not weigh you down. Variety is key. Have a lean protein on your plate, and make sure there is color by having a fruit and maybe even a vegetable.