Would you benefit from dining out tips designed to help you make wise food choices? The National Restaurant Association reports that American restaurants bring in a total of 500 billion dollars in sales annually! Imagine what that figure must be worldwide! With grocery prices soaring, the majority of mothers working outside of the home, and so many people working long hours and living hectic lives, is it any wonder that we don’t cook anymore?
Even with the rise in obesity rates and other weight-related health issues, people are still flocking towards restaurants. Given this fact, it’s imperative that people are educated and encouraged to make healthy choices. Following these quick and easy dining out tips can help you be successful as you pursue your weight loss goals.
The worst thing you can do is arrive at the restaurant famished. Don’t starve yourself all day in anticipation of your night out. Eat on your regular schedule but eat light. If your hunger is off the charts, eat a small salad before leaving home or eat a cup of soup before you order the rest of your meal.
Planning is essential. Have a good idea before you go to the restaurant what your general choices will be. Visualize the evening from appetizer to dessert and imagine how you intend to make each course count. When you arrive and study you menu, remember your plan.
Most restaurants are notorious for serving mega-portions. Arrange to split an entree with a friend or order an appetizer as your entree. Not only will you save calories but you’ll save money as well. If sharing is not an option, then eat only half of your meal and take the other half home, or leave it behind.
Dressings and sauces should be brought on the side so that you can control the amount. Dip your fork and notice that a little goes a long way. Avoid fried foods. Instead, order items that are “broiled”, “grilled”, or “roasted.” High-sodium foods are sometimes advertised as “teriyaki” or “smoked”, and high fat items are frequently called “breaded”, “sauteed”, “scalloped”, or “creamed.”
One of the most important dining out tips is to limit your alcohol intake. If you must have a drink, order one glass of wine or one cocktail. These tend to be “empty calories” and when you drink, you’re less likely to stick to your plan. If you must have dessert, order one and share it with your dining companions.
It’s a good dining out tip to ask the waiter to hold the breadbasket or chip basket. If that’s not possible due to the wishes of your companions, then stick to your plan. One piece of bread without butter or a half dozen chips with salsa would be more than sufficient.
Remember that it takes your stomach 20 minutes to realize it has had enough, so slow down your eating process! Eat slowly and really enjoy each bite. Put down your fork and wait a minute between bites. Focus on the conversation instead of your food. Be aware of your hunger and stop eating when you’re no longer hungry. Don’t wait to be full!
Buffets can be very challenging for the dieter. Be sure to use a small plate when you serve yourself. Research shows that we fill the plate we have, so a smaller plate will help you eat less. When visiting the salad bar, choose lettuce, beans, and vegetables. Avoid the prepared salads that are usually high in calories and fat. Avoid also the croutons, seeds, and cheese. Don’t use creamy dressings. A light dressing is usually offered and if not, make your own with one tablespoon of olive oil and vinegar. When serving your own meal, stick to healthy vegetables and the carving station. Don’t be tempted by the variety of desserts. Choose one small one and stick to that.