How To Go Out To Eat And KEEP Losing Weight!
Even though eating at home is healthier for us, there are times when you want to splurge and go to a restaurant for a nice meal – specifically, one that someone else has cooked for you! Haha!
So, we can AND WILL still go out to eat, but in 2013, let’s do it smarter!
Tip # 1: To Go Boxes Are Your Friend!
Ok, so the restaurant serves a huge portion, right? Studies show that if we are given a huge portion, we will eat it.
There’s a super quick, easy fix to this!
WHEN you are ordering your meal, ask if the server can bring you half on your plate and half in a to-go box. INSTANT PORTION CONTROL. Easy!
Tip #2: Don’t Get Swayed By “Specials” On The Menu
Specials are – I am sorry to say – often the fattiest and most inexpensive thing on the menu! Every restaurant knows you’ll look right at those butter laden, cheese covered “specials” and want to order them because they might not be on the menu next time.
Easy fix: Look up the menu before you go! Decide what you want to eat. Make sure it fits in your meal plan. When you get to the restaurant, avoid looking at those Specials and stick to your plan.
Tip #3: Veggies On The Side, Please!
Many restaurants offer you a choice of sides, like French fries, potatoes, or seasonal veggies.
This isn’t even a tip. JUST PICK THE VEGGIES! You’re not going to end up with a boring plate of veggies, you’re most likely going to get something seasonal, local, and very nutritious!
Eating well AND supporting your local economy? Win-Win!
Tip #4: Nutritional Info IS Available – Just ASK!
In the US, pretty much every restaurant must now have calorie counts and health info available…but it does NOT mean the restaurant has to post it on the front door with a “Dieters BEWARE” sign!
Most restaurants will only show you the info if you ask.
So, your quick fix to this little problem is to ASK QUESTIONS!! You can ask about the nutrition info, allergy info, and any other questions you may have – and they must answer truthfully!
What’s Next:
So much of my info on eating well, both at home and at restaurants, has come from Isabel De Los Rios, health expert.
She is REALISTIC about eating and knows that you’re going to shop at a regular grocery store AND you’re going to go out to eat once in a while.
She doesn’t tell you to restrict your meals, she just suggests you become more aware about what is IN your food and what it does to your body.
Once you know, you make better decisions!
Learn more about Isabel’s Diet Solution HERE.
Your Tips:
Do you have any restaurant friendly tips?
Cheers to your health,
Catherine
