Is it Possible to Dine Out and Stick to Your Diet?

Just because you've made a deal with yourself to lose x amount of pounds by bikini season doesn't mean you have to totally deprive yourself or avoid eating out. There's no fun in that practice, and besides, deprivation often leads to binging.

Seriously, your social life does not need to drop off completely, and you really don't have to turn down dinner invitations during this dedicated period. There are ways to go out, order respectably and still leave satisfied. Plus, if you're shy about divulging the details of your weight loss mission, don't worry about it; it's not like you'll be munching on crackers all night!

Choose fish for your entree instead of the fat-laden short rib dish. Drink red wine instead of a mixed drink. There are plenty of ways to have fun, eat well and stay on point no matter what the circumstances entail. Below are nine surefire tips that'll help keep you on track even when faced with a restaurant menu's endless temptations.

1. Drink Red Wine.

If you're going to imbibe, choose the heart healthy red wine in place of high calorie beer or sugary liquor-based desserts.

2. Pass the Bread Basket.

No one needs to know why you're steering clear of the crusty rolls; just tell them you want to save your appetite for the main event. In a way, it's true, but you'll also be saving a whole lot of calories, too!

3. Decline Fried Apps.

Ever notice how appetizers that are deep-fried tend to also be good for group outings? No matter. You can order a healthier starter and politely turn down your pals' offer to split the combo platter.

4. Get Your Greens.

Starting out the meal with a nice, big salad is key. You'll fill up a little bit so you don't attack your main dish when it arrives, and you'll also be doing your body a service by getting your veggie intake.

5. Drink Water.

Before, during and after the meal, keep drinking that H2O. It's good for you and will help temper any alcohol you might be consuming. Plus, it may stop you from feeling absolutely ravenous and overdoing it.

6. Opt for Seafood

Unfortunately, now is not the time for the steak frites or the duck breast. If you enjoy fish, ordering one of the seafood options won't be a problem for you, and it'll also be the healthier choice.

7. Go Veggie

Sometimes the restaurant's vegetarian option sounds so darn good, even to us carnivores, and yet we rarely end up ordering it. Well, now's the perfect opportunity to select the veggie-based dish.

8. Sorbet is for Sweet.

You do not have to pass on the last and best course just because you're trying to lose weight. Just stay away from anything that sounds too creamy or buttery. Fruit desserts can sometimes be OK, but sorbet is generally your best best.

9. Take it Home.

Finishing your entire meal when you had a starter and are considering dessert is probably too much. Watch your portion control and pack some to go to look forward to for lunch the next day.

By Stacey Gawronski

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