Figuring out restaurant menus can be tricky when you have diabetes. Learn how to order the right foods, in the right portion sizes, so you can eat out without the guilt.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
If you have diabetes, that doesn’t mean that eating out is off limits. You can still enjoy restaurant meals …as long as you’re smart about what you order.
Many restaurants post their menus online, so check out the selections before you make your reservation. Some restaurants even list the calories, fat, and sodium in each dish.
When ordering, get your food grilled or baked—not fried. For side dishes, choose vegetables or a salad instead of fries.
Most restaurant portions are way too big. To trim them down, get an appetizer instead of an entrée. Or, cut your dish in half. Put one half in a to-go box for later.
Ask for sauces, gravy, dressings, and butter on the side, so you can control how much you put on your food.
Order your dish without salt. Squeeze a slice of lemon over it or sprinkle on some pepper to make up for lost flavor.
Finally, take your time. You’re paying for a good meal, so savor each bite. By eating slowly, you’ll enjoy it more… and perhaps fill up before you can finish.