If you've previously had a heart attack, you know that the heart-healthy diet given to you by your cardiologist isn't always easy to follow -- especially if you're eating out. However, that doesn't mean that you have to avoid eating at your favorite restaurants. Instead, you need to learn how to find heart-healthy menu options and control what you eat so that you don't stray too far away from your diet.

Control Your Portions

The amount of food you eat is just as important as the type of food you choose and how it's prepared. Most restaurants serve larger portions of food. So, as you eat be aware of how much food you've consumed. If you have trouble controlling your portion size, share a meal with a friend or put half of your meal in a to-go container as soon as your food arrives.

Avoid Caffeinated Beverages

Most cardiologists recommend that you limit your caffeine intake, if you're allowed to consume caffeine at all. You should avoid ordering soft drinks at restaurants. You should also avoid drinks with added sugar. So, when it's time to order your drink choose water, low-fat milk, or unsweetened tea.

Order Vegetable-Based Meals

Many restaurants have vegetable-based meals, such as stir fry or salad. In fact, some restaurants even offer vegetarian options, such as veggie burgers. The diet your cardiologist gives you instructs you stay away from foods that are high in fat, fried foods, and foods that include heavy cream, sauces, or gravy. By ordering a salad, or other vegetable-based meal, it's easy to avoid making a bad food choice. Just make sure that you ask for you salad dressing to be served on the side so that you can limit the amount that you eat.

Skip Fried Side Dishes

When you choose a side dish, avoid choosing items such as fries or onion rings. Instead, choose vegetables or fruit as a side dish. If the restaurant doesn't have healthy side dish options, skip the side dish altogether.

Sticking to a heart-healthy diet doesn't have to be difficult. You can go out to eat, and even enjoy eating at restaurants. All you need to do is order healthy options, avoid fried food and food that is filled with fat, control your portions, and watch what you drink. As long as you stick to those rules, there's no reason why you can't enjoy a heart-healthy meal at your favorite restaurant. For more information, talk to your doctor about it at your next cardiology visit.