The Enemy Of Weight Loss

Do you remember when going out for a meal used to be something that happened only on special occasions? It seems that nowadays -- simply because we're too tired to cook -- we dine out as much as several times a week.

How To Dine Out And Lose Weight

Just because eating out is a regular event for you, doesn't mean you should over-indulge. Eat only as much as you need and no more -- making it a part of your regular eating pattern.

Yes, of course, we all overeat occasionally. But overeating on a regular basis is bound to pile on those extra pounds in no time.

Don't despair. If you do eat out a lot, just plan your meal carefully and with the firm intention of eating in a healthy manner.

Just because a restaurant has low prices doesn't mean it's the best place for you to go, as fast food and lower end restaurants are not noted for their use of low-calorie or low-fat cooking methods. Choose your restaurant with care, one that offers a selection of healthier dishes or one where the chef will prepare food especially for your request.

If, at times, you have to wait in the bar before your meal, avoid alcoholic drinks. In addition to increasing your appetite, they also lower your resolve to eat healthy, and they are full of empty calories. Instead of ordering a fizzy drink with your meal, ask for water. Drinking a small glass of wine with dinner shouldn't do too much harm in terms of calories.

Since some restaurants still serve large amounts of food, if you have a tendency to clean your plate no matter how much is on it, ask for a smaller portion or order an appetizer instead of a main course. Or perhaps share your meal with a dinner companion. Here in the United States it's okay if we ask for doggie bags, however, this is not done in Europe.

Avoid food served in buttery or cream sauces and all fried foods. Wherever possible go for plain grilled (broiled) chicken or fish and ask for any sauce to be served on the side. Another thing, since dressing can turn a healthy salad into a dieter's nightmare, order it on the side also.

"Would you like to see the dessert tray?" The answer to this question should be no, no and no! You just don't need 300 or more extra calories on top of everything you've already eaten.

Before you visit an ethnic restaurant take the time to understand their various cooking methods along with ingredients in typical dishes. If you are in doubt about a particular item on the menu -- this goes for any restaurant -- ask the waiter for information.

Remember, you are the one ordering the food and no one is forcing you to eat it, so don't use eating out all the time as an excuse for not losing weight.

If you really can't control your eating habits when dining out, you'd be much better off taking the time to plan, prepare and cook food at home. Instead of meeting friends for dinner, meet them for coffee or tea, or go out for a sandwich and a movie. Even better, organize an outing such as a bowling party, a shopping trip, or a walk around the neighborhood or a park. If you're on a business trip, check out healthy foods at a local store that you can eat in your room. Remember, the size of your expense account does not have to show up in the size of your waistline.