Ewing Weight Loss Reno

1. Reserve Your Table in Advance

Whenever possible, make your dinner or lunch restaurant reservations ahead of time. Why is this necessary? If you arrive at the restaurant at the last minute, chances are that you will have to wait around for your table. You may be tempted to head straight to the bar and order a calorie-rich alcoholic beverage or two. This may also sabotage your weight loss program.

2. Control Your Portion Sizes

Although many restaurants and diners offer way too generous portion sizes, this doesn’t mean that you have to over-indulge. Even healthy meals and sides can pack on calories if your portions are over the top. Fortunately, you can remain in control. For those extra-generous portions, why not share your entrée with your dining partner?

If sharing is not an option, then don’t be shy about asking your server for a to-go box to take home the leftovers. Save these for another meal, and you won’t feel guilty about wasting food or eating too much at one sitting.

3. Skip the High-Calorie Appetizers

Those stuffed peppers, potato skins, buffalo wings, and garlic knots may sound tempting, but they can be high in fat and calories. In turn, these appetizers may sabotage your diet. Instead, opt for low-calorie appetizers.

Ask for coconut shrimp appetizers, stuffed mushrooms, or cucumber- and tomato-based dips. Deviled egg appetizers are another good choice, so look for these on the menu.

4. Stay Hydrated

If you tend to eat too much while dining out. Have a tall glass of water before your meal, as this will help fill you up and curb your appetite. Also, insist on water as your main beverage, rather than sugary soft drinks. If you must have a soft drink with your meal, choose a diet cola or sugar-free iced tea.

5. Soup Up

Soup can be very healthy and satisfying. Order a low-fat bowl of soup before your meal to take the edge off your hunger. Avoid the rich, cream-based soups. Think chicken and rice type soups, tomato soup, or soups that incorporate vegetables. Butternut squash soup can also be healthy and filling.

6. Choose Healthy Sides

Forgo the French fries and onion rings. Instead, choose a healthy salad with lots of fresh greens. Skip the high-fat cream-based dressing and opt for a vinaigrette instead. A side of rice instead of potatoes may be a good choice as well.

7. Don’t Deprive Yourself of Dessert

If you say no to dessert while dining out, you may walk away with a feeling of deprivation. In turn, this may make you more inclined to cheat on your weight loss plan later. You might end up sneaking downstairs to the fridge at midnight for that high-calorie slice of apple pie or a double scoop of ice cream. Fortunately, there is a better way.

While eating out, order a sensible dessert that won’t make you feel like you are depriving yourself. If you’re craving an ice cream sundae, order a yogurt and fruit parfait instead. A fruit sorbet is another good option. Rather than ordering a chocolate pudding dessert, go for the gelatin.

Keep the above-mentioned tips in mind and enjoy eating out while on your weight loss program.

To learn more about starting a physician-guided weight-loss program, contact Ewing Weight Loss Reno today.