Eating in restaurants can play a big role in many of our social events i.e. dates, birthday celebrations and so on, it’s not always possible to avoid the situation.
The one problem you face is the limited choice you receive on the menu and then the further lack of options you will have to match your nutrition goals.
- Here a re some tips to assist you if you find yourself in such a situation:
- Choose where to eat in advance and with extra thought. Do not wait until the last minute or when you are hungry to decide as you will likely make a poor decision.
- Restaurant s provide you with a service, do not be afraid to ask questions or make special requests to modify your meals to suit your needs. I.e. replacing chips/fries with extra portion of steamed vegetables.
- Aim to choose as many foods as possible for their nutritional quality rather than taste and appeal alone.
- Avoid low nutrient high energy foods such as chips/fries, fizzy pop/soda, side orders such as garlic bread and onion rings.
- Ask for foods without mayonnaise and cheese . • Always ask for still or sparkling water – avoid liquid calories.
- Always get a side of fresh steamed vegetables .
- Avoid overeating, yes you have paid for it but that’s not an excuse to overeat and cause yourself discomfort and digestive distress – get a ‘doggy bag’ and take it home if you would like to finish it.
