Thinking about dining out this weekend? Why not support a good cause and dine out at one of the participating West Chester restaurants for the Dash and Dine. A portion of the proceeds will go to support Diabetes Self-Management at The Chester County Hospital. Print the coupons attached and bring in to be sure the donation is made. Restaurants include Iron Hill, Landmark Americana, Pietro’s Prime, Nonna’s, Mas Cantina, Kildare’s, Doc Magrogans, Side Bar and Restaurant and the Italian Social Club.
Click here for the coupons.
The 16th Annual Parkway Dash 4 Diabetes 5K Run / 2.5K Walk
On April 10 in downtown West Chester you will be hard pressed to get through the borough without spotting runners and walkers of all ages who came out for the 16th Annual Parkway Dash 4 Diabetes. This event, which hosts over 650 competitive 5K runners and 2.5K walkers, is held in support of The Diabetes Self Management Program at The Chester County Hospital.
“The proceeds from the event help support the educational needs for those managing diabetes in our community,” says Michele Francis, Registered Dietitian and Manager of the Diabetes Self Management Program, “Diabetes has increasingly become a problem across the country, yet many diabetes education centers are closing due to lack of funding. This leaves people with no resources to learn how to prevent complications associated with their disease.”
The weekend of the Dash, participants and area residents can continue to support The Diabetes Self Management Program by dining out at one of many downtown West Chester restaurants who have agreed to donate a portion of their sales to the cause. Last year’s Dash and Dine participants included Iron Hill Brewery, Kildare’s Pub and Restaurant, Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House, Limoncello Ristorante, Landmark Americana Tap and Grill, the Italian Social Club, Nonna’s, Pietro’s Prime Steakhouse and Seafood, and others. For a complete listing of this year’s participating restaurants please visit www.chestercountyhospital.org.
While the array of fine cuisine available to diners in downtown West Chester is vast, and choosing your meal is hard enough based on taste and price, Francis notes that you should also consider nutrition value in your selection process. Most restaurants offer delicious meals that are naturally low in saturated fat, trans fats and cholesterol.
Here are just a few things to look for when choosing a nutritious meal out on the town:
Consider portion size: Most meals served at restaurants are much over the recommended portion size. Sharing an entrée with a friend or date is a good way to indulge and still only consume the proper portion. If you can’t talk anyone into sharing a plate with you, select your portion when your meal arrives, stick to your guns and only eat what you had selected, and have the rest boxed up for left-overs… Then you can enjoy the meal again tomorrow.
Avoid these words: Fried, au gratin, crispy, pan-fried, escalloped, and stuffed. Although they may make your mouth water, they are most likely high in fat content and calories.
Go for these words: Steamed, baked, broiled, grilled, poached or roasted.
Go for the Veggie Oil: Ask your waiter/waitress to have your meal prepared with vegetable oil in place of butter. You can also ask for olive oil for your bread in instead of butter as well. Keep in mind that all oils are fattening so they should be consumed in moderation. Even one tablespoon of olive oil has over 100 calories.
Take it on the side: Request that sauces, gravies, and dressings be served on the side. This way you can control the amount that is used on your food. Many times the meal will be tasty enough without it. Consider dipping your fork in the dressing before picking up your food. It will add the flavor without over doing it.
Opt out of the whole: Many restaurants will offer you cream, half-and–half or whole milk with your coffee or tea. Ask for skim or 1% if it is available.
How about dessert?: You don’t have to opt out of dessert – just choose wisely. Go for the fruit sorbets or the mixed berries when possible. Again, think about portion size… don’t be greedy, consider sharing with a friend.
“Remember, don’t be shy about making special requests,” notes Francis. “Most foods on the restaurant menu can be heart-healthy and diabetes friendly if prepared properly. If asked nicely, kitchens can alter preparations to meet your requests.”
To register for the Dash or find more information regarding the Dash and Dine Event please visit www.chestercountyhospital.org.
