Tips for Eating OUt at a Restaurant

There may be times when you will be asked to attend a dinner or function at a restaurant.  It may pose 
a problem if you are trying to lose weight, since restaurants usually provide their customers with 
dishes that contain more food than they need to consume.  These types of meals can destroy a 
healthy diet and lead to serious weight gain, unless you plan ahead accordingly.   

The Menu

Most of restaurants have a website that will allow you to browse their menu prior to arriving.  This 
gives you the opportunity to review the menu in detail, so that you can see what types of foods you 
should eat.  

Some individuals are very indecisive when ordering from a new menu, especially when they are trying 
to select a healthy meal.  By viewing the menu before arriving to the restaurant, you will already know 
what you want for dinner and can make the proper choices. 

Split Appetizers  

If the individuals in your party would like to order appetizers, then you should consider splitting an 
appetizer with someone else.  You could also ask that your entree's accompanying side salad or soup 
be served as your appetizer.  If there are no side dishes for your main meal, then you could order a 
small house salad. 

Avoid the Bread Basket  

The bread basket is something that almost all restaurants provide.  However, these breads are high in 
carbs and can be counterproductive to your diet plan.  It also makes you become fuller faster, which 
means that when the main meal is served, you may attempt to finish the entire thing, which can lead 
to overeating. 

Fried Foods are the Enemy

Try to avoid ordering any foods that are fried.  These items tend to be battered and the oil that is used 
to fry them can also increase your weight.  If a food item is listed as being fried, you should ask your 
server if it could be broiled or grilled instead.  

Drink Water Not Sodas

Water is your friend.  You should refrain from drinking sodas and other beverages that are high in 
sugars, since they can add to the overall amount of calories that you are consuming.  Ask the server for 
slices of lemons and limes to give the water an appealing citrus taste. 

Eating out a restaurant does not have to impair your ability to lose weight.  By making some smart 
decisions about what you are eating, you can be sure that you are making the right decisions.