How to dine out like a health queen

There’s nothing better than heading out for dinner and drinks on a Friday night or better yet starting a Sunday morning with a croissant or two.

It’s no secret that dining out can seriously affect your fitness and health goals especially if you are on a weight loss journey.

So if you are trying to lose those extra kilos make sure you follow our tips on how to dine out without the guilt!

Before you head out

1. Look at the menu prior and have a plan of attack: Select wisely such as the lean cut meat or salad.

2. Factor in the calories: alcohol, coffee and juices are full of empty calories and need to be accounted for

3. Eat smaller meals that day so you can have a calorie ‘allowance’ for that night

4. Drink plenty of water during the day

5. Aim to get into plenty of fibre before you dine out: Think dark leafy greens, wholemeal bread, fruit ect. Fibre will keep you satisfied and feeling full for longer

How to order like a health queen

1. Keep it simple and look for meals with the fewest components.

2. Ask for your dressing/sauce on the side: Sauces and dressings are full of hidden calories and sugars. Having them on the side allows you to control the portion size.

3. Don’t be afraid to modify dishes on the menu: Make requests such as steaming the vegetables rather than roasting. Alternatively ask for your meat to be grilled rather than fried.

4. Account for oil and butter: All food when dining out is cooked in oil or butter , make sure you are away of these hidden calories.

5. Don’t fill up on table breads before your meal.

6. Stay hydrated.

Don’t stop yourself from dining out, be wise, be prepared and be flexible!