6 Tips to Prevent Dining Out from Derailing Your Diet

1. Have a light low calorie snack about one to two hours before, such as a piece of string cheese and an apple.  If you are super hungry when you dine out, you are more apt to overeat and less likely able to resist appetizers, fatty foods and condiments such as dips, french fries and butter.
2. Don’t eat the bread: If the restaurant is known for their bread and it is so delicious you have to have it, forgo the starch with your meal. Instead of potato, pasta or rice with your meat or fish, opt for grilled vegetables.
3. Limit your alcohol intake to one or none.  Not only will this save you money, but it will save you calories (not to mention your liver).  If you decide to drink, have only one, or, opt for a half glass of wine, as some restaurants now offer this as an option.
4. Ask for a “light” menu. Many places now offer a lighter fare with foods that are grilled or made with olive oil instead of butter and heavy sauces.
5. Don’t get dessert. Just as with alcohol, it will save you money and save your waist and rear end from expanding. Plus, you will have the added benefit of feeling proud of yourself that your willpower won out to overcome the temptations.
6. If the portions are large, cut it in half and take half home when you leave, or share it with your dining partner; one entree and two salads with 2 sides of grilled vegetables.