Eating out, not missing out
Being the social creatures we are, no matter how much we try to shield ourselves from the food influences of the outside world the time will come that where we are forced to put our willpower to the ultimate test and dine out with friends.
Firstly, have a healthy snack before you go so you’re not hungry and are tempted to order the entire menu.
While out, be careful of alcohol consumption, not only is it high in calories they are empty ones containing no nutrient value. Yes, I know that apple cider is made from apples, vodka from potatoes, gin from juniper berries and wine from grapes, but unfortunately once the fermentation starts the nutrition goes. Alcohol also lowers our will power and inhibitions. Too many, may have you strutting your stuff like John Travolta or busting out your best break dancing move on the dance floor as well as seeing you indulge in sugar, salt and fat loaded snacks as you just can’t say no.
When it comes time to ordering your meal always choose for grilled or steamed over fried options. Do the unthinkable and ask for your meal without the chips (you can always steal a few off someone else plate 😉). This will help you avoid nasty fats, especially trans fats form the deep-fried oils.
Order off menu – many restaurants and cafes will allow you to “design” your own meal. But don’t be an A-Hole about it. If you are going to do this be mindful of the style of food already served by the restaurant and try and tweak something already on the menu to suit your needs, so don’t order tacos at an Italian restaurant as your likely to upset the chef and may end up “extra ingredients” in your meal 😊.
Salads and soups are also good choices too. Check if any salad dressings are “homemade” if so ask for them on the side so you can add it to suit your tastes. However, if it is store bought leave it out altogether as many commercial dressings come laden with sugar, preservatives and a wealth of other chemicals.
With portion sizes growing often there is more than enough in an entrée size as your main. By doing this you can cut your food intake. Many of us have been raised to finish everything on our plate, but it’s ok to leave food – seriously it’s ok unless your dining out with your mum no one cares.
If you do decide to cut loose and let it all hangout, do it in moderation and don’t beat yourself up for it. Enjoy and savour it, it’s only one meal! Your next meal is an opportunity to nourish your body and make a better choice....… maybe a salad next time instead of the all you can eat challenge 😊.
Allie xx
