We all enjoy a restaurant-cooked meal now and again, but if you’re trying to lose weight it can be difficult knowing what to choose – particularly when it comes to dessert. The key to enjoying yourself without overindulging is portion control and planning ahead. We tend to eat more when we dine out at restaurants than we would when we are at home, due to the portions being much larger than you would serve yourself. One great way to avoid this is to bear your portions in mind when you order – opt for a light starter, such as a salad or soup, and save half of your dinner to bring home and eat the following day.
Choosing the restaurant itself can also help you make healthier choices. While most eateries offer some dishes which are fine to eat on a weight loss programme, you are advised to avoid the all you can eat buffet-style restaurants – these will only encourage you to overeat and consume more calories than you need. Wherever possible, choose a healthy option such as grilled chicken and salad or soups. Even steakhouses usually offer seafood options which will have fewer calories and fat.
You should aim to eat foods which are simply prepared so that you have a rough idea what has gone into them. Casseroles, stews and sauces could contain numerous ingredients and usually include butter, cheese or fats. You can always ask your server to hold the butter to make your meal a little healthier. Cheese is another ingredient best avoided if possible, as it will cost you plenty of calories. It goes without saying that fried foods are a no-go, which includes avoiding chips as your side dish.
As a general rule, simply being smart about your diet choices means that eating out doesn’t have to hinder your entire weight loss programme. Simply avoid eating large portions, opt for grilled or steamed foods where possible and skip the butter on vegetables or bread to save on fats and calories.
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