One of the sure signs of autumn’s arrival is a surge of traffic around malls as stores start their fall sales and fashionistas hit the racks in search of the must-have wardrobe addition. Before you lament in front of a dressing room mirror that those skinny jeans just don’t look the way they do in the magazines, make sure that your trip to the mall’s food court doesn’t add unwanted inches.
How to choose wisely
* Don’t blow your budget. Choose a meal that fits your fat and calorie limits. Sure, that chocolate chip cookie the size of a hubcap looks delicious, but blowing all your calories on that is like spending all your money on a pair of shoes and having none left to buy the dress.
* Great taste never goes out of style. It has to be something you like to eat. Don’t sulk with a dressing-less salad and bottle of water. If you crave something tasty, then add half the packet of dressing to the salad or choose a low-fat dressing. Order unsweetened iced tea with a splash of sweet tea or lemonade.
* Choose slimming foundations. Whole grains, lean meats, low-fat dairy, fruits and vegetables should be the base of your meal. So at the stir-fry place, request lots of veggies with just a little oil. Getting a salad? Make sure it’s full of vegetables — not croutons and blue cheese crumbles.
* Think about what it adds to your look. Certain nutrients in foods can help you meet health goals. Rather than worrying about what not to eat, cruise the food court in search of foods and ingredients that add good nutrition. Pile that pizza slice high with whatever veggies they have on hand.
* Accessorize wisely. Condiments and beverages can sabotage an otherwise stylish meal. Go easy on the shredded cheese added to salads, for example. Less is more in fashion and in food and nutrition.