Eating Healthy in the Big Easy

With our city’s diverse history and culture, there is no shortage of culinary choices when dining in New Orleans. Whether you step into one of our corner hole-in-the-wall diners or a five-star restaurant, you can bet on a meal that will feed your body as well as your soul. To keep your body in tip top shape, consider these healthier swaps the next time you have a seat.

• Ask your server to hold the chips or bread basket.
• Avoid additional calories from sweetened beverages.
• Choose a tomato- or stock-based soup instead of those made with cream.
• Choose lean cuts of meat, chicken, or seafood.
• Instead of fried fare, consider boiled, grilled, or even blackened entrees.
• Avoid heavy cream sauces. You can also ask for condiments or sauces on the side.
• When choosing sides, opt for steamed/roasted veggies or complex carbs like peas, beans, or grains. Be mindful of high calorie toppers.
• Portion sizes are usually larger than recommended when dining out. Ask for half portions or a to-go container right away to box up half.
• Ask for extra plates to split dessert.

No matter your choice of cuisine, remember to slow down to enjoy the flavor and company, or as we like to say, “Let the good times roll!”

Melissa Lewis, RD, LDN
Clinical Dietitian
Melissa received her Bachelor's of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Louisiana Tech University. She went on to complete her Dietetic Internship at Louisiana Tech the following year. Melissa has been at Children's Hospital for 10 years this June. She currently helps our dialysis and nephrology patients with their renal diet, as well as our neurology patients on the ketogenic diet.

Prior to working at Children's, Melissa worked as a dietitian in an acute care facility helping renal, telemetry, and rehab patients. She also enjoyed working with the Smart Bodies Program, encouraging wellness among the students of Lincoln Parish elementary schools.