Steak salad (1 piece)

Choose a dressing with no added sugar, such as olive oil and vinegar, lemon juice, or an unsweetened vinaigrette; avoid sweet dressings, honey mustard, balsamic glaze, and teriyaki.

Skip croutons, tortilla strips, candied nuts, dried fruit, and sweet sauces; add avocado, olives, cucumber, mushrooms, or pumpkin seeds instead.

Keep the steak portion moderate and choose a lean cut; pair it with a larger volume of non-starchy vegetables such as leafy greens, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, or asparagus.

Ask for dressings and sauces on the side so you can control the amount and avoid hidden sugars.

Eat the steak and vegetables before any higher-carbohydrate sides, and avoid adding bread, fries, or sugary drinks to the meal.

Take a 10–20 minute easy walk after eating to help reduce the post-meal rise.