When you get to the stage that you are roughly aware of the quantity you need to consume on a daily basis to elicit sustainable fat loss, you can then chose meals that allow you to stay on track comfortably. Issues often occur however when this regimented “normal” eating routine is challenged by social events that may have you feeling out of the usual control and feeling a little vulnerable.
There will be a number of factors which will need consideration if you want to remain consistent and on track with your nutrition goals, yet still enjoy social events and dining out In particular.
The main being-
➡️ The choice of Restaurant
➡️ The meal choice itself
➡️ The finer variables which go into making that meal
The first point is where you eat. This would appear a fairly obvious one theoretically, but I appreciate when eating out in a group setting having sole choice over where to eat can be challenging.
As an example to help remain in a calorie deficit for fat loss is the goal. All you can eat pizza 🍕and being sat next to the ice cream fountain🍦probably wouldn’t be the best selection for a meal out!🤦🏽♂️. However, if this is the predicament you find yourself in you can still make the best-informed choices available to meet your needs by perhaps selecting a thin based pizza and opt for a veggie-based topping.
🚨 It’s worth noting that if you are dining at many of the popular High Street restaurants ( such as Pizza Express, Zizzi & Bills) will be able to provide information of the meals nutritional value either on the menu or by request now by law.🚨
When possible choose an establishment which serves meals which fit your requirements as closely as possible. The following guidelines will empower you into making positive choices, whilst still have the enjoyment of eating out-
➡️Having viewed the menu have a couple of preferences in mind.
➡️Choose places that cook from the grill and then build your meal around protein
➡️Choose dishes with minimal ingredients and that aren’t served in lavish sauces.
➡️Swapping carbohydrate-laden side orders for an extra serving of vegetables.
Another area to consider in ALL restaurants is their use of sauces, oils and sugar to enhance the taste. Any chef worth his salt (no pun intended) will want the food they serve to be delicious. They sadly do not care about your waistline! The same restraint you show in the kitchen with food preparation towards your goals will not be shown when eating out and socialising. At the end of the day, you pay the bill so DO NOT be afraid to ask the waiter to adapt your order. Meat doesn’t have to be cooked in a tonne of butter, neither fish swimming in a pool of calorific oil to taste fantastic. The use of seasoning will be adequate in most cases.
So, DO NOT fear eating out, rather just make sure you are organised and prepared for the challenge ahead. This way quite literally allows you to have your cake and eat it!
If you are looking for any extra support with your nutrition, why not join our free Facebook support group here: http://bit.ly/TA1NutritionGroup