How to dine out while on a diet

Just because you’re on a diet doesn’t mean you have to put a hold on your social life. Here a few tips to enjoy meals out with friends and family while sticking to your plan.

1. Know before you go – If possible scope out the menu online. This will save time when you arrive at the restaurant and if there are no options available for you call ahead. Many restaurants will offer steamed dishes if you call in advance. 

2. Skip the bread – When you are seated, ask your host/hostess not to bring any bread to the table. By the time your waiter comes around it may be too hard to say no when the bread is in front of you. If other people in your party would like to have bread request that they put it on their respective plates. This will remove any temptation to start nibbling before food arrives. 

3. Order first – You may think your friends don’t influence the way you act anymore, but they still do. If your friend orders a burger and fries you will be very likely to order the same, especially if the entire table opts for unhealthy items. Ordering first will not only make sure you stick to your healthy choice but it may influence your friends to do the same!

4. Don’t be shy – This is one of the most important rules when dining out. If you think a sauce may be creamy, ask if it is dairy. If you want to modify your meal feel free to do so. Restaurants are there to serve the customer so don’t be shy if you want to make substitutions. 

5. Do dessert right – Chances are if you are out with a group dessert will be on the menu. It’s easy to skip out when ordering but a lot harder to say no when the dessert is in front of you. To avoid giving in to temptation opt for a healthy dessert such as a fruit cup or frozen-yogurt.