Dining Out & Midlife Metabolism

Vacations often mean more restaurant meals, bigger portions, and less routine, which can make weight creep up even when you’re trying to eat well. A little awareness — and a few small habits we discuss in this new series — can help you enjoy the trip without bringing extra pounds home with you.

Many people gain a pound or two during vacation periods. Restaurant meals, larger portions, and disrupted routines quietly increase calories.

Restaurant meals often contain far more butter, oil, and larger portions than home cooking. Here’s why the same dish can have two to three times the calories.