Going out to eat at a buffet restaurant is an easy solution for your family because everyone can choose what they want. Today, January 2, is National Buffet Day. But before you head to the closest buffet for dinner, follow these tips and visit Dr. Locke after your meal to keep your mouth safe.
Make Healthy Choices
A buffet often has plenty of options for you to choose from. However, this may also be a problem. The large dessert display may look very tempting. The fried dishes smell so delicious. Even the salad bar can turn unhealthy if you pile up lots of toppings and fatty dressings. Buffets are easy and convenient, but they’re often also low in nutritional value.
Make good choices as you go through the line. Since there are so many options, you should have no problem eating a healthy, well-balanced meal. Try to choose plenty of fruits and veggies and limit yourself to only one plate of dessert.
Keep Clean
As you pick up the spoon for your mashed potatoes, keep in mind that many people have probably touched that spoon before you. Buffets are a germ’s haven because everybody has access to your food. Some people may lick their fingers, cough, or sneeze, and then grab the spoon to get seconds. In addition, some foods may sit out for a while and collect more bacteria.
Consider using your own utensils to grab your food, or request a new one. It’s also important to wash your hands after you get your plate of food to eliminate germs you collected from the serving utensils. You should also try to beat the dinner rush and get there early. The food will be fresher, healthier, and tastier.
Don’t Overeat
Buffets have no portion control. After all, you paid for all you can eat, so you may feel obligated to keep going back for more until you’re over-stuffed. Just remember that the more food you put in your mouth, the more you’re feeding the bacteria in your mouth.
Take a break between servings and sip water to allow yourself to realize how full you really are. In addition, don’t starve yourself before going out to dinner. If you’re starving, you’ll just pick up everything you see—whether it’s good for you or not. Eating a small snack before you go will help you make healthier decisions while you’re at dinner. In addition, you may want to sit right next to the buffet line so you’re close for your additional servings. However, it’s best to sit farther away so the smells don’t tempt you.
Buffets can be healthy, but it’s all up to you to make the right decisions. After your dining experience, visit Dr. Locke to make sure the bacteria in your mouth is not having a buffet of its own. Contact our dentist office in Waco, Texas, at (254) 776-4888 to schedule an appointment.