Spring is officially here!!! Finally!!!
Warm weather, activities outside and {my favorite} outdoor
patio dining!! There is nothing better than eating outside with great company
and enjoying a cold drink! This time of year restaurants are starting to
open there patios and we can finally eat outside…now all we need is the weather to cooperate! As fun as eating
out with friends and enjoying great food can be, it can also be tough on the
waistline. I have compiled a list tips on how to still enjoy your social life
while keeping your diet in check! After all....that's what life is all about, moderation and still enjoying some indulgences every once in awhile!
Look at the menu
before you go
-
Checking out what’s on the menu before you go is an
easy way to ensure a good {diet-friendly} choice! If you arrive to the restaurant
starving without have looked at the menu, the chances of you choosing something
healthy is slim. If you make your choice before you go it’s much easier. Every
restaurant is going to have some sort of lean protein and vegetable option.
Make your own salad places are my fav because it let’s you be in control of what you're eating! Know before you go!
Ask for a to-go
box right when they bring out your food
-
We all know American portions are out of control! More
times than not, a restaurant is going to give you a serving for at least 2
people. Asking for a to-go box not only lets you give yourself the correct
portion, but gives you a second meal for the next day! Bonus!
Water, water,
water!
- - We all forgot about water when there is a nice glass of
chardonnay in front of us {guilty!} Make sure when you are eating your meal,
you are drinking water. This will help to prevent over-eating and water helps
with your food digestion…something alcohol can’t do.
Be picky!
-
If you are in the food service industry, you will
probably kill me for this one! {Sorry!} When ordering, be as picky as you want!
If you don’t want your broccoli slathered in butter or your chicken fried, then
say something! You are the one paying for the meal! Always ask how things are
prepared before confirming your choice. Be specific about how you would like your
things cooked and what you would like omitted {and make sure to leave a good tip ;) } There is nothing wrong with
knowing what you want!
Slash the
calories…..Make a spritzer out of it!!
-
This is one of my favorite tips! I love me some
champagne, but know that I need to limit myself when watching my figure.
Instead of a full glass of champagne {or white wine}, add a flavored seltzer to
it! Most bars/restaurants have flavored seltzers, just ask! Its a great way to be social, enjoy your drink with half the calories!
Indulge a little
if you want to!
-
If your friends are up for dessert…don’t be the odd man
out! Enjoy 2 bites and be done with it! Taking a couple of bites of chocolate
cake or whatever it may be will certainly not ruin your diet. Allowing yourself
to taste can actually be helpful in reducing sweet cravings. So go ahead and
enjoy and move on! J
-
Instead of just getting in your car and going home
after your meal, take a walk! Walking after you eat not only helps burn
calories {duh!}, but aids in digesting your food and can help regulate your
blood sugar. So take 10-15 mins and stroll around a bit before going home.
Enjoy the fresh air and warm spring weather!
Spring and Summer are all about enjoying great memories in warm weather with family and friends! As long as you are conscience of most decisions, it shouldn't deter you from making progress with your health goals. Keep consistent, enjoy a few indulgences and have fun!
