Eating out can be a challenge for anyone trying to lose weight. With all those high calorie choices, you just want to run and hide. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can still enjoy going out with friends and family, just make better choices ahead of time.
1. Check the restaurants website ahead of time. They always have their menu’s online and you can see the calorie counts before entering into any restaurant. There are many restaurants now that have ‘Under 500 Calories’ menus. You just have to look. But avoid buffets at all costs.
2. Order water with lemon, this works! Be strong–leave out juice or soda (even if it’s diet). Research can back me up on this:)
3. When you order, ask to put condiments, cheese or dressings on the side, or do without.
4. Cut your meal in half. As soon as it arrives, push half to the side, ask for a carry out container to save for lunch the next day.
5. Let your server know you don’t need bread, chips/salsa with the meal. At first you might think, “But, I’m paying for it, why not?” This way, you won’t pay for it the next day!
6. Share a dessert. No need to go completely without, so satisfy that taste. I only need about three bites to really enjoy it, then I’m done. Keep the end in mind–your skinny rear end!
My favorite places to eat that have low calorie options:
1. Applebee’s (Weight Watcher approved)
2. Wendy’s–great salads between 250-500 calories depending on the dressings you put on top.
3. Subway Sandwiches–you have total control from the bread, condiments, produce and meat.
4. Any Mexican Restaurant –order a taco salad with grilled chicken, and don’t eat the shell. Use salsa as your dressing.
5. Chili’s has ‘Lighter Options’ on their menu. Great meals from 250-580 calories.
I hope that you can use these and establish a few tips for yourself that you can follow easily. You can enjoy eating out every once in a while with low calorie options that are full of flavor. Enjoy life and enjoy food!
Best,
Jill Holmes
Website Director
