Eating Out

Eating out is one of the most difficult things one may encounter when trying to successfully lose weight. There are so many temptations in restaurants, and let’s face it: portions these days are HUMONGOUS!
The biggest thing I have learned is it’s about making changes to items, and not being afraid of being “rude” for doing so. You’re a paying customer, so getting an entrée the way you want it should not be an issue. Asking to substitute fries for cottage cheese, sliced tomatoes, or a side salad should always be an option. It may cost a little bit more, but it’s worth it.
Another extremely important skill that needs to be learned is self-control. The first time I went out to eat after I started losing weight was to a barbeque place with my parents. I can’t say that they had the healthiest options. So, for dinner I ordered barbecued chicken, and as my two sides I ordered greens and French fries. When the food came the first thing I did was take the skin off of the chicken. Right there I shaved off a bunch of calories. As for the sides, greens aren’t healthy because more often than not they are made with fat/lard, and obviously French fries aren’t good for you. This was my first instance of practicing self control. As hard as it was, I had 3 bites of greens and three French fries, and then I made myself STOP. I walked out of the restaurant not feeling guilty at all!
Another trick I’ve practiced is with salads. Pouring a lot of dressing over your salad can potentially add tons of calories. Creamy dressings are commonly thought of as the worst. The first thing I ask for when I am out is what “light” versions of dressings an establishment has. If there are none, I ask for oil and vinegar. If there are options, I order whatever I’d like on the side of the salad. I used to be a dressing freak. My salads HAD to be covered in dressing. Now, so that I do not miss the taste, I dip my fork in the side of dressing and then gather my bite on it. I end up not even using half of the side of dressing I ordered, and I still have the enjoyment of the taste of the dressing.
Lately my good friend Christi and I have been going out to eat together. We’ve established a routine where we split orders. Last night we split a Cob salad and a pasta dish with a cream sauce, chicken, and shrimp (obviously not the healthiest thing ever). Splitting this with someone else makes me feel so much less guilty! Before, I could have easily finished the whole bowl of pasta on my own. Now, with the salad, I didn’t even finish my half of the pasta. This really helps with portion control, calorie consumption, and spending on eating out!
These tricks are just things I’ve tested and found out work for me. I try not to make eating out a horrible process. I learn tips and tricks and modify dishes to my needs. It’s not an ideal thing to eat out, but it’s something that’s pretty unavoidable. If you can’t make your own meal, have it made to your specifications! Don’t be rude, and be appreciative of your server taking the time to help you with your dish, and you’ll be good to go!
Until next time,
Jessica