Does going out to dinner sound appealing but stressful at the same time? For those with diabetes, the idea of eating out at a restaurant when you have very little control over the composition of sauces, and the extra ingredients added to your plate can be daunting. I mean, trying to stay healthy at home is challenging enough, but all the temptations that a restaurant offers, well, it’s enough to keep anyone away.
If you’re tired of avoiding restaurants because you’re a diabetic do not know what to eat when dining out, keep reading. I am going to share four very simple eating out tips that you can use every time you head to the restaurant.
No more avoiding family events, or skipping out on co-worker lunch invitations. By following these tips, you can quickly become a master at staying healthy while going out to eat.
- Plan Your Timing Right
As you know, when you take medication for diabetes such as insulin the timing of your meals is important. The best thing to do when planning to dine out is to choose a restaurant that takes reservations. This way you can plan concisely when to take your medication remove some of the stress from the equation and better enjoy your time with friends and family.
- Speak Up
Asking questions can significantly improve your menu options! If you don’t find anything you think will work for you on the menu, just ask. More often than not, restaurants can accommodate dietary needs. You can also ask for certain ingredients to be left out to make menu items a little more diabetic friendly.
- Skip the Bread
I know, I know the bread that comes to the table before your meal is tempting. Who doesn’t love warm bread with butter? However, is that bread going to do anything good for your body? The answer, most likely, is no. Instead of chowing down on refined carbs before your meal, opt for something like veggie slices with hummus, a low sodium soup, or salad. You can also skip the appetizer all together and wait for your main meal.
- Be a Detective for Hidden Sugars
Sugar is everywhere, and you have to put on your detective hat to find where it. Some common restaurant items to avoid include things like salad dressings, tomato sauce, beverages, and even that ketchup bottle sitting on the table. Instead of the salad dressing that comes with the salad, ask for some olive oil and vinegar, use garlic and olive oil instead of tomato sauce, and if you want something other than water, go for an unsweetened ice tea. Making these healthy swaps can save you tons of added sugar, and salvage your blood sugar levels!
Life’s too short to let diabetes be the reason you don’t go out to eat. Restaurants are often very willing to accommodate dietary needs, and you can easily make adjustments so that you can enjoy your dinner out just like the rest of your family.
Bon appetite!
