Did you know that Americans dine out four times a week and spend $1 billion a day in restaurants?
If you've mastered eating healthily at home but the thought of heading to a restaurant with family and friends fills you with dread you don't need to worry. You can pass on the carrot sticks and the salad and still lose weight if you follow these weight loss tips for eating out.
1. Plan ahead
Most people don't actually look at the menu when they are handed one by their waiter, because they're too busy chatting to the people they are dining with. Then the waiter suddenly appears to take their order and they're forced to make a snap decision, which is usually something unhealthy!
You can avoid this by planning ahead. These days most restaurants make their menus available on their websites, so read the menu before you get to the restaurant and decide what you want to eat. That way you don't have to worry about getting caught up in the conversation and not having time to look at the menu properly at the restaurant.
2. Make a special request or substitution
While you're reading the menu don't be put off by something you like the look of just because it's fried or served with a sauce. Think about asking for the meat to be grilled instead of fried or substituting the sauce for a healthy side. Most restaurants will be happy to accommodate your special request.
3. Decide on desert
While you're reading the menu at home take a look at the desert options. Just because you're trying to lose weight doesn't mean you have to skip desert, you just need to find something that works with your diet.
Here's the real key. If you really like the look of something on the deserts list then you need to skip the appetizer. Three course meals are not the best road to weight loss, but you can make an entree and a desert work with your diet.
4. Order first
When you're at the restaurant be sure to order first when the waiter arrives. That way all your hard work won't go to waste as you won't be tempted by what everyone else is ordering. In fact you might inspire your dinner dates to choose a healthier option too!
5. Everything in moderation
Just because you're on a diet doesn't mean you have to skip the complimentary bread basket, just don't eat all of it!
6. Slow down and savor the experience
Remember that eating out is not just about replenishing your energy supplies with food, it's about savoring the tastes of the food and enjoying the company of your dinner date. Slow down and enjoy the experience and let your body tells you when you're too full to eat any more.
