When you are working hard to shed those stubborn pockets of fat, going out for a dinner with friends can feel like an ordeal. And let’s be honest here – would you want to be munching on veggies when others around the table are indulging in delicacies?! We hope not.
It’s easy to prepare meals at home when you are in control of the calories that end up on your plate. But once you head out for dinner, things take a 180 degree turn, leaving you unsure about what you are going to consume.
If dining out often is on your weekly menu, then here are simple tips that can help you keep that waistline from bulging out –
- Scout the menu first
Internet can actually help you diet! How? Simple, go online and look at a restaurant menu to find the healthy dishes on the menu. Plan out what you will order and stick to your decided menu when you visit the restaurant. Explore locations, restaurants, menu, offers, events, and even book a table at a restaurant.
- Ditch the snacks
Snacking before a meal has never done any good, and never will. If you love binging on appetizers, you will exceed your calorie intake every time you go out for a meal. Appetizers are loaded with fat, and also consume your appetite. Avoid the fatty entrées and choose low-fat appetizers or a side salad instead.
- Choose your diet wisely
Balance your meal by including healthier selections and putting out the high calorie siders. Include more of salads and if you want to eat meat and fish, choose the steamed or broiled versions. Eat more veggies; you get a lot of fiber and nutrients, and a lot less calories.
- Portion your meals
Another important thing to ensure is the food portions that you consume. Eat smaller portions; don’t overeat just to finish everything that has been served. You can bring the leftovers home for another meal.
- Drink water before and during the meals
Some studies have observed that if you drink water before and during the meal, it reduces your appetite and you also consume less. Water is also a great substitute for the sugar-sweetened drinks that you consume during the meals.
- Chew your food well
The longer you chew, the longer you take to finish your food. And research shows that eating slowly leads to less eating and lesser weight gain. This is the reason why fast-eaters are often overeaters. Slow eating also makes you feel full more quickly.
- Go low on alcohol
Alcohol is a high calorie drink which can add huge number of calories to your meal. The number of calories in a drink depends on the strength of the alcohol and the amount you consume. Prefer to consume smaller portions of alcohol and try mixing the alcohol with a low-calorie drink.
Don’t get intimidated by the thought of dining out; instead, stick to a healthy eating plan, and you will be able to enjoy your food without worrying too much!
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