All we ever hear is how restaurant portions have grown in the last couple of decades, fueling the fire for obesity. For some people, a “great meal” is one that is a “lot of food for a little bit of money.”
So what happens if you know you can’t possibly eat the huge portions that are being served up in restaurants? A few eateries are offering two sizes, 1/2 or “small plate” portions and regular. Another option, is to order from the children’s menu. Some of you are probably raising your eyebrows. Depending on whose eating, it just might be the perfect option.
Every Saturday, we pick Grandma up from the local retirement home and take her out to lunch. She’s 91 and has always been on the “plump” side.. As people age, they usually lose their appetite, in part, because their metabolism slows down due to lack of movement. Even though Grandma is overweight, she hardly eats anything. What we’ve come to learn, is that sometimes the best foods for senior citizens, comes from the children’s menu. It usually offers enough choices of foods the elderly are familiar with–burgers, fries, pizza, grilled cheese, meatballs, spaghetti and even peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. If you ask, you can probably substitute broccoli or fruit for fries or make other good choices. The menu is limited, doesn’t require too much reading or thinking, doesn’t cost a fortune, and the presentation isn’t overwhelming. Grandma is usually delighted.
What if others applied the same concept? Restaurants can be pretty accommodating if you ask. Most restaurants will be happy to add a slice of avocado or tomato to a grilled cheese. Yes, it would be better if there were more healthy choices. Regardless, lots of times I order a healthy appetizer and a bowl of soup or side salad.
Remember, you don’t have to be a senior citizen to use this strategy. Smaller portions come in handy for anyone trying to save on calories. If the restaurants you frequent don’t offer smaller portions, let them know you would like them to, maybe even give them some suggestions. Especially if they are privately owned and not a chain, they really do want to give their customers what they want. If you come up with some ideas you might be pleasantly surprised how they will try to accommodate you. If that fails, order from the children’s menu. These days, that’s probably more than enough food. If you find a restaurant won’t be accommodating, you might want to take your business somewhere else.
Diane 
