Eating Out.
It will happen.
You can’t avoid it forever.
Someone will ask you to go out to eat with them. Friends wanting to get together. Family wanting a fun night. Something to celebrate. Maybe you are just too lazy to cook. In any case,
It will happen.
I know this can throw you for a loop. Immediately, your mind starts reeling, “You are doing so well! You don’t need this temptation right now. So-and-so won’t care that I am dieting. I don’t want anyone to know I am dieting. What does it matter, maybe I could have a little such-and-such?”
But remember! This is a lifestyle change! And going out to eat is part of that lifestyle. Unless you are going to hole yourself up for the rest of your life????? NO! Learning how to navigate your way through this is totally possible and you can still enjoy yourself! Follow these tips to make your life easier:
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Simple straight forward ingredients means less calories. You know, things like chicken with… or salmon filet with…, plain baked potato…,things like that will make your life easier.
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Don’t be afraid to ask if there are other ingredients not listed. There are so many dietary restrictions out there and restaurants have to know their stuff, so they certainly don’t want you to accidentally ingest something that could kill you, i.e. allergy.
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Avoid creams and sauces. Just a little bitty bit of that can derail you. There is no way to know what you are dealing with, so stick to vinegars, vinaigrettes, lemon juice…that kind of thing.
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Bring your own shit. I do this ALL THE TIME. Coconut milk creamer? CHECK. My own apple cider vinegar dressing? CHECK. Gluten-free or grain-free bun? Double CHECK.
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The nicer the restaurant, usually the better the service…usually the better the quality of food and USUALLY the cleaner the plate. This isn’t always the case, but in my experience is mostly true. And if anything, (see #2) they are usually more willing to work with you!
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And if all else fails and it is just NOT a sure thing. Skip the meal. Suck it up. Focus on your fellowship with others and not FOOD. It certainly won’t kill you, then go home and
eat right!
