One of the challenges after weight loss surgery seems to be eating out in a restaurant.  In this series of post I'll be giving some "tips" on eating out.  

Make sure you catch the entire series, I've separated it into six separate shorter post to make reading easier. You will find them listed under the title "tips please".  

Dining out should be enjoyable, you just need a few strategies to keep you "stress free".  You need a plan, but never fear, I'm here to help.  I have lots of experience in dining out!  The "tips" on me! 

Choose wisely

Most problems can be avoided by choosing the restaurant you eat at often, wisely.  Sometimes I am in a situation with others that I don’t get to choose, but most of the time I can make suggestions that might cater to my needs better than others. Planning ahead will help.  

If you can call ahead or investigate regarding the menu and your options. Ask to speak to a manager and explain your eating challenges and that you are trying to choose a restaurant that can best fit your needs.  If you are not allowed to order off the "kids" menu, ask if they can suggest another option.  Be kind and if they are not agreeable, find another option.  It has been my experience that most places will be accommodating.  

The internet is also a good source to check out menus.    

Portions sizes 

Restaurants are offering smaller portions and healthier choices these days making it easier for us with special eating challenges.

Most places will inform you on nutritional info or portion sizes.  

Take out boxes are a great way to start.  Setting aside the portion you can eat and placing the rest in the box will help you stop eating before you overeat.

My husband and I often go out with friends, especially for dinner.  We join one couple who loves to go to the early bird appetizers at Yosake.  This usually works well, because the appetizer portions are small, I just order one and at half price, I'm a cheap date! 

Sharing 

My husband and I often share a meal.  That means both of us are cutting our portion sizes.  Sharing is a great option, the only trick is to agree on what to order.  Most of the time, he caters to me, since I have less options. On occasion an extra side item might be needed.  It's still a lot less food than two full meals.  

We also have other friends that often join us when dining out for dinner.  One thing we like to do is order two entrees and share them. The guys do the meat and potatoes thing, while the girls get fish and veggies.  We sometimes order an appetizer to share as well.  And, yes, most times dessert, but with four of us eating one dessert...everyone gets a little taste and what great fun!  It's great to get together with friends over dinner, and especially when we enjoy being creative. Sometimes, it's the journey or creative experience we enjoy along with the food, we have been as far as an hour and half drive for dinner, once we took a limo, what great fun!  

With just a little planning, I can enjoy the meal and the best thing is that I don't feel deprived, guilty, "stuffed" or dread stepping on the scales after I'm done.   

More "tips" ...next post!