12 SUPER Useful Tips for Eating Out (Without Ruining Your Diet)

You did it!

You didn’t give in… Not even once!

Every juicy burger that crossed your path. Every creamy pasta dish that caught your eye. Every delicious dessert that you got offered. They were no match for your remarkable willpower.

As the week comes to an end, you give yourself a pat on the back. You are serious about your diet and conquering your hard earned results. But… wait! You’re not safe, yet.

Tonight you are having dinner with friends. All those delicious dishes… you’re terrified you won’t be able to control yourself. You’re only human, after all!

You really wanna go… but the thought of cancelling crosses your mind.

Hold on a minute! Don’t cancel just yet. You can still go.

BUT, be sure to follow these 12 simple rules to GUARANTEE that all your hard work does not go to waste.

Okay…Let’s get to it!

1- Choose a restaurant that pleases everybody

Suggest a restaurant that has (at least) a few healthy choices. With the amount (and types) of restaurants available, it shouldn’t be too hard to make everybody happy.

2- Do your homework (and plan ahead)

Nowadays, most restaurants post their menus online. Research beforehand the healthiest options and avoid the pressure of ordering on the spot. Your hungry (and impatient) friends will thank you, as well.

3- Eat a snack before you go

By the time you get to the restaurant, be seated and order… you’ll probably be famished! This will make your brain crave unhealthy choices. Help yourself make the right decision by eating a healthy snack (such as a fruit) before you go.

4- Fill your stomach.. with WATER.

As soon as you sit down, ask your waiter for two glasses of ice water. Drink them immediately. According to this study [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/08/100823142929.htm], you are likely to eat 70-90 calories LESS this way.The theory is simple: fill your stomach with water and curb your appetite.

5- Stuff yourself… with salad

As a starter… request a garden salad, or any healthy variation WITHOUT: croutons, bacon, cheese, anchovies, etc. This way, you’ll be less likely to sabotage your diet. Also, avoid any creamy or oily dressings.

6- Ask your waiter (EVERYTHING)

Don’t be shy. Your waiter is there to help you make the right choice. Ask what healthy side dishes are available. Or, what’s in that sauce. Don’t be afraid to use him… but be sure to thank him for his patience!

7- Make (smart) substitutions

If you ask politely, most restaurants will let you substitute items. The following requests are usually accepted:
White rice for brown rice
French fries for baked potato (hold the butter and sour cream)
White bread for whole wheat bread (the same goes for pasta)

Even if you are not sure they will heed to your request, ask! You’d be surprised how often it works.

8- Ask for sauce/dressing on the side

It doesn’t matter if you order a salad or go for the salmon. Your diet will be destroyed if you are not careful with what they add to it. ALWAYS ask for the sauce/dressing on the side. They usually put too much of it, anyways!

9- Order half a portion

Have you ever noticed the portion sizes? It’s way more than you really need. Some places allow for the option of ordering half a portion. This way, you’ll cut calories AND save some money. Not too shabby!

10- Donate half of your meal

Sometimes it’s not possible to order half a portion. When this is the case, eat half and and ask to take the other half in a doggie bag. Give it to somebody who needs it. You’ll be doing both of you a favor!

If it’s not possible to give it to someone in need, you can always eat it later on (when you’re actually hungry).

11- Share your dessert with the rest of the table

You know that feeling when you crave something sweet after your meal? Sure you do! Why not indulge by sharing one dessert with the whole table? This way, everybody can partake in some much needed sugar rush!
Disclaimer: Please disregard this item if you are eating alone. 🙂

12- Be proud of your success

Phew! It’s the end of the meal. You made it! All the dedication (and thoughtful preparation) has paid off. You’ve done a great job dodging many tasty temptations. You ought to feel great about it!

A Final Note

Remember… just because you are on a diet doesn’t mean you need to deprive yourself of the things you love. Go out… see your friends… have fun! But, if you are serious about your diet, be sure to follow these tips.

Oh… one more thing.

Bon apetite!