How to lose weight when your best friend is Uber Eats
We all love to eat out! Whether it's a celebratory dinner, a casual catch-up with friends, or simply a night off from cooking, dining out is a social and enjoyable part of life.
However, frequent restaurant meals can pose challenges for weight loss. If you eat out more than twice a month, it's not a special occassion, and you need to be intentional on what you're ordering, if you're trying to lose weight.
Let's be honest, it's easier to make healthier choices when you're in control of the ingredients.
Common Excuses & Finding Solutions:
"I have to entertain clients/family commitments":
Plan ahead! Research healthy options at the restaurant beforehand by reviewing menus
Choose restaurants with healthier menus.
"I'm too tired to cook":
Prepare simple meals in advance (like large batches of soup or salads) for easy weeknight dinners.
Consider meal delivery services that focus on healthy, pre-prepared meals.
Tips for Navigating Restaurant Menus:
Do your research: Google "healthy options at [Restaurant Name]" for valuable insights from nutritionists and other diners.
Deconstruct the dish: Imagine breaking down the ingredients. Opt for simpler dishes with fewer processed components.
Start with a salad: A light salad with grilled protein and a side of dressing can help you feel full and make healthier choices for your main course.
Prioritize grilled, baked, or broiled options: Avoid fried, glazed, or smothered dishes.
Choose zero-calorie beverages: Opt for water, sparkling water, or unsweetened tea.
Side swaps: Request fruit, vegetables, cottage cheese, or a side salad instead of fries.
Boost protein: Double the protein on fast-casual meals (like burgers or wraps) to increase satiety.
Is it always easy? No.
Making healthy choices when dining out requires effort and planning. However, it's crucial for achieving your weight loss goals.
And let's be real: Dining out isn't always faster or cheaper than cooking at home. Long lines and unexpected delays can quickly negate any time-saving benefits.
By implementing these tips, you can enjoy dining out while staying on track with your weight loss journey.