I'm here to assist you in avoiding the "okay, miss healthy" or "geeze you're so lame" comments that come with opting for higher protein and high fiber options whilst dining out.
First off, identify why you typically select the dishes you do:
- Maybe you order something because...it's dish you would not (or could not 😏) eat at home.
- Maybe you order something because...everyoone else is eating it.
- Maybe you order something because...you perceive dining out as "an experience" and ordering glutenous or lavish meals is something you're "used to doing".
- Maybe you order something because...it's the cheapest thing on the menu, but not really the most nutritious.
Listen, it's okay to indulge occasionally.
The key is to make mindful choices most of the time. By following these tips, you can enjoy dining out without compromising your health goals.
- Recall the last time you "overindulged": Maybe it helps to remember a time when you last dined out and could barely stand up, had perpetual bloat, slept poorly, experienced gnarly bowel movements, “felt like crap”, etc.
- Focus on Your Own Plate: Don't feel pressured to eat everything on your plate or to try everything your friends order. You can ALWAYS get a to-go box.
- Find a Healthy Ally: If you know someone else in your group who shares your dietary goals, team up and support each other.
- Acknowledge the real experience: Recognize that the REAL experience of dining with friends and family is...the conversation!! Engage in conversation, really ask questions, play would you rather, etc. You can also focus on other aspects of the dining experience, such as the ambiance or the company.
