Socialising often means eating out but that doesn’t mean you have to kick your health goals into touch. Dinning out with your friends or loved ones can sometimes be challenging, however with a little prior planning eating out can still be an enjoyable part of a healthy lifestyle. Try using these simple tricks next time you dine out.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead means you can preview the menu online rather than just showing up and hoping for the best. Knowing what the restaurant has to offer means you can make an appropriate choice on your meal or switch to a restaurant that has some better options. Having a plan makes it easier to maintain healthy eating behaviours. It’s also important to note that the food choices of others can influence our own. Try ordering your meal before everyone else so temptation to deviate from the plan remains low.
Don’t Dine on an Empty Stomach
Obviously our healthy eating plans are more likely to go out the window if we’re ravenous before we’ve even sat down at the table. Making sure to eat balance nutritious meals throughout the day can help us fight the itch to eat everything in sight. If that’s not enough, try having a healthy snack like a piece of fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts before you head out for you social gathering.
Choose Your Meal Wisely
Knowing exactly what you’re ordering is an important part of ensuring your meal stays healthy. Foods that are deep fried, covered in cheese or creamy sauces or are pastry based are higher in calories, saturated fats, sugar, and sodium and are typically lower in nutrients. Opting for meals that are grilled, steamed or poached and that include a balance of lean proteins and vegetables are a healthier way to go. Don’t be afraid to ask for your meal to be prepared the way you like; this includes choosing healthier sides (ie. salad rather than chips) and asking for sauces or dressings on the side.
Don’t Rush It
Eating out with your friend should be about more than just the food. Mindful eating not only allows you to enjoy your food but it also gives you a better opportunity to connect with the people you are enjoying your meal with. Try placing your cutlery down between each bite and rest until you’ve finished each mouthful. This builds better mind-body awareness meaning your body will have time to register it’s full before you over eat. Not rushing your meal also opens you up to engage in conversation.
Drink Smart
When it comes to beverages water is best. Water is a great low calorie way to stay hydrated and ward off excessive hunger. When water just won’t do look for options that are low in sugar and low in calories, this way you won’t end up overdoing it without even realising. If you’re drinking alcohol limit yourself to two standard drinks and be mindful of what’s in your mixers.
Don’t Overindulge on Dessert
Most of us know dessert generally brings with it a whole heap of extra sugar, saturated fat and calories. Whilst saying no is the best way to keep your health on track it is ok to occasionally indulge in these types of food. If you can’t say no look for a dessert that is based around fresh fruit or if you really need to hit the sweet spot try sharing a dessert with a friend or loved one.
Food brings people together so eating out should be an enjoyable occasion. It’s important to remember that one meal won’t undo all your hard work. If you’re consistent with healthy eating and lifestyle habits, wholeheartedly enjoying a meal out with your loved ones will actually do more good than harm.
xx Tara
What’s your go to healthy eating option when you dine out? Let me know in the comments section below. Join our PAC and book in a time to see the gym and chat about your health and fitness goals.
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