Eating Right When Eating Out

One of the hardest times to eat right is when you eat out! By “out” I mean any time you eat away from home. That means picnics/BBQs, the office, play dates and restaurants. Anytime, that you are not in total control of the menu choices, you are at a risk for making bad food choice. Let me first say that I am a firm believer that you can splurge a little when it comes to your food consumption, but only on very special occasions and you should make allowances for it.

Plan Ahead

If you know that you will be going out to a BBQ on Saturday afternoon or out for your friends’ birthday party on Friday night try to do these prep steps

Eat light but filling before you go

Drink lots of water before, during and after – this helps you to feel full faster

Run an extra few miles (or whatever form of exercise you choose) that morning

If you are going with a group and they are indecisive about where to go – pick a place that you know you can get something healthy to eat.

If you eat at work, ask your boss to request healthy choices in the vending machines.

If you are going to a restaurant try to look up the menu online – and figure out what you will order before you get there. This allows for less time to peruse the menu and pick something that sounds yummy but you will regret later.

While you are there

Try not to graze – this is especially difficult at picnics and BBQs, but you have to do your best to keep track of what goes in!

Share an entrée with someone else – or order a half-portion. Same goes for desserts (although it’s better to skip them all together)

Substitute the fries for veggies, the hash browns for fruit, mash potatoes for salad or rice.

Only order one alcoholic beverage – you would be shocked by how many calories and carbs are those dang Mai Tais!

Know your forbidden fruits – what’s your weakness? Chips and salsa, or maybe breadsticks? If you can, ask that they just don’t bring it out. If other’s want it, ask if they will put it on the other end of the table.

I am not trying to put the kibosh on your fun get-togethers. I just want you to be conscious of the lasting effects of a night on the town. You can still have a really great time going to just about anywhere with your friends and family. You just need to plan ahead and make good choices when you get there.