At home, you have more control over:

• Portion sizes

• Added salt, sugar, butter, and oil

• Ingredient quality

• Cooking methods

• The balance of protein, vegetables, and whole grains

Restaurant meals are often larger and contain more sodium, saturated fat, and calories than similar meals prepared at home. However, eating out can still be healthy when you choose grilled or baked foods, vegetables, lean proteins, sauces on the side, and reasonable portions.

Bottom line: Home cooking generally makes healthy eating easier, but what you cook matters just as much as where you eat.