10 smart tips for eating out

Don’t put your social life on hold when you’re getting healthy – keep these tips in mind when you go out for a meal.
Published September 19, 2016

 

If you’re a bit of a social butterly, you’re in the right place because, with Weight Watchers, it’s easy to enjoy yourself while still making smart, healthy decisions to keep you on track – for good!

  1. Be budget-friendly

Plan ahead for your meal by working out a SmartPoints allowance to spend. Check out the menu online first, so you can point up a few options that fit your budget – just in case you change your mind halfway through ordering. And remember to use your weekly allowance for any extras you might fancy.

  1. Use your resources

Need help deciding where to eat? Take a look through your Weight Watchers app or our website where you’ll find the SmartPoints for popular meals at top restaurants – so you’ll be able to track before you’re at the table.

  1. Order off-menu

Don’t be afraid to make a special request – it’s totally fine to ask for sauce on the side or to order a salad instead of chips with your meal. It’ll help you keep your portions in check, so you can decide how much you want to eat. 

  1. Know the lingo

Your waiter can help you navigate the menu if you’re not sure what something means. If a meal includes anything smothered, rich, au gratin, glazed or creamy, it’s generally higher in SmartPoints. But flame-grilled, poached, smoked, baked or grilled dishes are usually smarter choices.

  1. Don’t clean your plate

... unless you want to. If you’re feeling comfortably full, don’t force yourself to finish everything off. You’ll feel better if you stop when you’re satisfied. If you can’t bear to leave your leftovers, ask to take them home for tomorrow’s lunch – or share with friends.

  1. Be salad savvy

Tuck into a fresh, leafy salad, topped with grilled chicken, Csh, and low-fat dressing. Bear in mind that extra toppings like croutons, bacon, nuts and seeds increase the SmartPoints.

  1. Give No Count a go

Sticking to the Simply Filling food list will make eating out easy – and with options like lean meats, fruit and veg, and whole wheat pasta, there’s always something tasty to enjoy.

  1. Don’t go hungry

Make healthy, filling choices throughout the day, so you don’t turn up to your meal hangry (that’s hungry and angry – eek!). That way, you won’t overindulge in the bread basket, and you’ll be more likely to really enjoy your dinner.

  1. Stay hydrated

It’s absolutely fine to have that glass of wine – but keep your body happy by alternating any alcoholic drinks with a glass of water. It’ll help keep your SmartPoints budget in check, and you’ll feel better in the morning, too. 

  1. Celebrate!

The real point of eating out? To enjoy yourself! If you go slightly over budget, don’t stress – just take a few SmartPoints out of your weekly allowance to cover it. It’s not the end of the world, and you can always start afresh tomorrow.