Hey beauties,
Eating out is a part of our hectic, crazy lives—it’s an unavoidable yet wonderful distraction. But let’s be real: navigating restaurant menus while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle can be a bit tricky. Fear not! I’ve got some tried-and-true tips to help you “healthy-up” your dining-out experience without feeling deprived.
1. Customize Your Order
I recently went out for breakfast at First Watch here in Scottsdale for a work meeting. Craving something flavorful, I eyed their special holiday menu featuring Double Crunch Breakfast Tacos—yum! However, I was concerned about the extra carbs from the crunchy and soft tortillas.
Here’s what I did: I asked the waitress if the chef could make a hash with all the taco fillings, minus the beans and tortillas. This way, I enjoyed all the delicious flavors without the unnecessary carbs, especially since the hash already included potatoes. Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications; most restaurants are happy to accommodate!
💡 Tip: Swap out or remove ingredients that don’t align with your health goals. Add extra veggies or proteins to make your meal more balanced.
2. Portion Control: Eat Half Now
When dining out, the portions are often large enough for two meals. I always eat only half of my meal and save the rest for later. This not only helps with portion control but also prevents that sluggish feeling after overeating.
💡 Tip: Before you start eating, mentally (or physically) divide your meal in half. Enjoy your portion slowly, savoring each bite.
3. Enjoy the Other Half Later
About 3-4 hours after my meal, when I start feeling hungry again, I enjoy the other half. This helps keep my blood sugar levels steady and prevents me from reaching for unhealthy snacks.
💡 Tip: By spacing out your meal, you keep your metabolism active and avoid energy crashes.
By following these simple steps, you’re still indulging in a delicious meal—you’re just spreading out the enjoyment and making healthier choices along the way. This approach helps me feel satisfied without feeling deprived, and I hope it does the same for you!
Remember: Eating out doesn’t have to derail your health goals. With a few mindful choices, you can have the best of both worlds.
Until next time, stay fabulous and keep glowing up!
Love,
Sarah Lynn 🩷
