How to eat out on a diet

If you’ve watched your weight and successfully slimmed your way to looking and feeling good in a bikini, you may be worried about the damage that eating out will cause to your new body.

1. Plan what you’re going to eat before you step foot in the restaurant. Many restaurants have downloadable menus online, or if it’s not online, phone and ask for the menu. Once you have an idea of what’s available you’ll be able to plan accordingly. So if you really want to eat pasta smothered in cheese and cream you know to make sensible food choices for the rest of the day. And to put a bit of extra effort in the next day by going for a long walk along the beach or by doing laps in the pool.

2. Request your meat and fish to be cooked healthily by the chef who will be able to grill it instead of frying. You should also ask for any sauces to come on the side, as this will help you control how much of them you eat. If your meal comes with chips don’t be afraid to ask for a baked potato with no butter, salad or veggies instead.

3. Though it may be tempting to buy a bottle of wine while eating out, especially as so many restaurants have promotional offers on house bottles, having just 1 glass of wine will save you between 200 and 300 calories.

4. Say no to 3 course meals. If it’s a special occasion split a starter or dessert with someone else, and generally avoid the side dishes. If you do choose a side, opt for a salad (minus the dressing) or steamed vegetables.

5. Skip after dinner lattes, cappuccinos, mochaccinos, and frappacinos as these add at least another 160 calories to your meal. Instead opt for an ordinary black coffee with milk and no sugar which has a meagre 20 calories. Or choose a cleansing green tea which will set you back just 2 calories.