Day Eight: Tips on Dining Out

One thing that can be difficult to do when trying to be healthier and lose weight is dine out. Portions are usually way out of control and it can be hard or even impossible to find out how it is prepared. However, here are a few ways you can dine out responsibly.

1. If you are choosing the restaurant, then pick a place that is known for being a more healthy and wholesome place. 
2. If you are not choosing the restaurant, try to find a menu and nutrition facts online. 
3. Prepare before you go by picking out what you are going to order and deciding (if appropriate) how much of it you are actually going to consume while you are there. This tip is good for those that are creatures of habit and find it difficult to stray from what you would normally get. Simply visualizing and going in with a game plan can help fend off those other temptations.
4. If you can't find a menu or nutritional information online, then use your common sense when ordering. Avoid things that are typically bad for you like fried food, most red meats, cheese, white bread, etc. 
5. Don't be afraid to ask how their items are prepared and ask to have things specially made. 
6. Even if you try your best to order wisely, sometimes the portion size is the hard thing to get away from. One thing you can do is ask for a box with your dinner and automatically put half of it away to take home. Out of sight out of mind, right? 
7. If all else fails, and you're not afraid to be the odd person out, then you can eat before and just enjoy the night out with your friends and family. 

Hope you find this useful in your next night out. Just because you're living a healthier life doesn't mean you need to sacrifice going out. Thanks for reading!