The experience of eating out and having someone else prepare a meal for us should be special, on occasion as well as in our control. This is a time we should be celebrating the company we are with, the hard work we have accomplished in our lives and the skill and creativity of the business establishment we are visiting.

This is a time to tantalize our taste buds, take a load off our feet and enjoy a different atmosphere. Why feel guilty, sneaky or even physically uncomfortable when all the right tips for having a fun healthy dinner are in the palm of your hand??

Remember you are in control…. let them know how you want it.

Asking for dressing, butter, sauces, or salt on the side is NOT imposing or being difficult.

Ask for only half of your scrumptious meal to be served and the other half packed away for take home before you ever see it.

When it comes to bread prior or during your meal, quite honestly…it's a big no-no. Why fill up when you've just ordered a mouth watering meal?

Salads: Caesar salad is not really a vegetable anymore. The dressing is super high in fat and the bacon and Parmesan cheese just adds insult to injury. Sure it's tasty but packs a punch in the calorie department. Fresh garden salads, leafy greens with a light oil and vinegar/lemon dressing will freshen your pallet and help circulate your blood.

Soft drinks: another no-no. Water with your meals is the safest way to go but try not having the ice…..it just slows down your digestion.

Though an alcoholic beverage may be desired, before you order ask yourself the following:

 Do "I" really want one?

Am I just ordering because everyone else is?

 Is it worth the 7 calories per gram?

Maybe it is, and maybe you really would like to have one. If you choose to order then perhaps you can compromise with yourself and not have dessert.

Which leads us to dessert of course. Use the above questions. If dessert is an option try a sorbet, or a non-fat yogurt option. Some places may even offer a fruit bowl/plate.

Most importantly order something you will enjoy eating but not feel guilty or have to worry about running a marathon afterwards to burn it off. A little bit of a treat isn't going to ruin you but a myriad of poor choices towards your weight loss or healthy living goals will certainly take you back a step.

So sit back, let someone else cook, clean up, and enjoy your time, during AND after!

When You're healthy... you can do anything!

Lisa Berry is a Nutritionist, Personal Trainer, and Certified Life Coach. Contact Lisa at lisa@graciouslyliving.ca or call 905 442 0973 with any questions or to book your personalized session.