Chinese Buffet?!

Well, tomorrow I'm being forced to enjoy a nice family lunch at a Chinese buffet. Chinese food is known for it's bad reputation with oils and unhealthy foods.

I know the calories in these food are all very high and it's mostly fat and sodium, but does anyone have any tips to help me out at what options to avoid and what options to try?

What I do know: I'm definitely going to be picking up a plate of steamed vegetables and seafood if I see the chance. I'm going to avoid the sauces and beef for sure as well.

Thanks for any help you could provide me. I really need the confidence! XD

I know that you've probably already have had your chinese buffet lunch with the family, but may I suggest to others perhaps eating something before going out? Maybe a piece of fruit or something else to fill you up slightly, along with plenty of water. Then perhaps you will not be as hungry (or ravenous as I usually am!)

On days when I know I'm having lunch with friends, I will set my alarm for an hour early and hit the treadmill before work.  That way I've burned extra calories for the day and my metabolism is already geared up.  Ialso go light on my evening meal with just a salad if I've gone too high on the calorie side. 

Even on lunches when I'm eating sushi...I avoid the rolls because of the rice. Usually on buffets you can't get sashimi (no rice) so go easy on the rolls.  Also watch the soy sauce - choose the low sodium and use it sparingly.

Avoid anything that's fried in batter and covered in sauce.  There's usually a bunch of steamed veggies and shrimp.  Sometimes you can't avoid the sauce on the steamed veggies, so look for the salad bar like previously suggested. 

Most of all, remember this is a family get together.  Focus on spending quality time with your family, instead of making the food the focus.  Have a good time!

Original Post by pitkitten:

myrlwhite-

 

In america, the chinese buffet typically serve a lot of different types of food.  Not just chinese.

Lol yeah I realise that now after certain posters (not you) drummed that into me. Will remember for next time!