With some planning, a person with diabetes can easily enjoy meals at their favorite restaurant. It all depends upon making good choices. Keep the following tips in mind when eating out.
Eat Before Going to Dinner - You may be thinking, "Huh?" But, eating a small nutritious snack and drinking a glass of water before going out for a meal, will keep you from being famished by the time you get to the cafe. If you eat before leaving for dinner, you'll be less likely to choose an unhealthy meal or overeat.
Plan Where You're Going Before You Leave - If you know where you're going, you'll have plenty of time to choose what you're going to order before you get tothe cafe. If you're going to a familiar restaurant, don't even look at the menu. Reading the menu may make you change your mind about eating properly.
Try to Eat on Schedule - Do your best to always eat at the same time as usual, even when you're eating out at a restaurant. It will be simpler to maintain your blood sugar level when you stay on schedule.
Ask - If you have any concerns about how something is cooked, ask. Don't be shy when it comes to asking about ingredients, asking for substitutions and changes, or asking that your food be prepared in a particular way. Remember, the restaurant and your server wants you to be happy. Satisfied customers leave biggermore generous tips and make return trips to the restaurant.
Make the Healthiest Choice - You may be craving a certain meal, but think about how you'll feel afterwards if you don't eat properly. You don't want to sigh, "I wish I hadn't eaten that," after your meal. You won't have any regrets if you always order the best choice for you.
Order Vegetables - Order a salad and steamed vegetables with your dinner, even if it means making a substitution.
Drink Water - choose a glass of water with lemon to drink with your dinner instead of choosing alcohol or soft drinks. A cup of black, green, or oolong tea is also a great choice.
On the Side - Ask for dressings, sauces, and gravy on the side. You can better manage how much you eat by dipping your food instead of covering it.
Keep Away From the Complimentary Basket of Bread - Decline the bread basket. Bread will affect your blood sugar.
Only Eat Half of Your Meal - Cease eating when you've finished half of your dinner. Have your waiter box up the rest and eat it later. The good thing is you keep your blood sugar and portions in control and don't have to prepare anything for your next meal.
Remember That Eating Out is Not a "Treat" - Diabetes is a way of life and you must eat properly and control your blood sugar to avoid complications. Remember that you're not "taking a break" from eating properly when eating at a restaurant.
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