Okay so here we are with a massive arsenal of fantastic recipes to make at home, but every now and then it's still nice to go out to eat. Special occasions, date night or even any given Tuesday when you just don't feel like cooking. Yes... as much as I love to cook I do have those days as well. :-)
Going to a restaurant can be challenging for us diabetics for sure, but with some simple guidelines to follow there's almost no need to compromise or "cheat". This article is from one of my very favorite sources, WebMD. I like them because they have all their stuff medically reviewed by actual doctors. I have looked up some of them at times and have never been disappointed regarding their real-life credentials. Without further ado.... Have a good read! :-)
Diabetes & Restaurants: What to Order When Dining Out
Medically
Reviewed by Michael
Dansinger, MD on January 28, 2023
Make the Right Menu Choices
Whether it’s dinner in a restaurant or lunch from the
drive-thru, you can enjoy eating out with type 2 diabetes. The key is to choose
nutritious dishes. That’s not always easy, because many meals made outside your
kitchen are high in calories, fat, and carbs. You can stick with your diabetes
meal plan if you ask the right questions and know what to look for on the menu.
Time It Right
Eating around the same time every day keeps your blood sugar steady. That’s important if you take insulin or medicine for your diabetes. Try to make a reservation at your usual mealtime. If you know you’ll have a late lunch or dinner, snack on a piece of fruit or bread, then skip that serving during your meal, so you don’t double up.
Do Some Prep Work
It’s easy to give in to temptation when you’re dining with
friends, especially if your decisions feel rushed. Before you go, look up the
restaurant’s menu online, and choose a dish that fits with your diabetes meal
plan. You also can call ahead of time to ask questions and make requests. Some
chefs will prepare a special meal.
Be Careful With Carbs
Your body needs carbs for energy, but too many at once can
raise your blood sugar. To keep your levels steady, experts recommend 45 to 60
grams per meal. Many restaurant meals pack in much more. In fact, one baked
potato or medium serving of fries delivers 60 grams. Keep an eye on your
portions, and consider meals that are lower in carbs, like a spinach salad with
grilled chicken.
Scan the Menu for Healthy Buzzwords
Grilled, steamed, poached, braised, and broiled: These
cooking methods usually don’t add a lot of fat or calories. Skip the ones
labeled creamy, breaded, crusted, crispy, and fried. Ask your server how a dish
is prepared if it’s not clear on the menu.
Watch the Portions
Many restaurants give you enough for two meals in one
serving. If you know this is the case, ask your server if a half-serving is an
option, or ask for a take-home container and set aside half for a later meal as
soon as your food arrives. You also can split an entree with someone, or pair a
healthy appetizer with a salad or broth-based soup for your meal.
Get Sauces and Dressings on the Side
Some restaurant dishes come doused in dressing or sauce.
That usually means you’re getting more calories, sodium, and fat than you need
-- or expected. To scale back, ask for it on the side, then dip your fork in
the sauce before taking each bite of food. You also can drizzle it on your
salad or entree one teaspoon at a time. Better yet, flavor your dish simply
with lemon juice and a little olive oil.
Ask for Substitutions
A few swaps can make your meal healthier. Instead of French
fries or hash browns, get a double order of a vegetable, such as a side salad,
broccoli, or tomato slices. Having tacos or a burrito? Salsa or pico de gallo
works well in place of cheese and sour cream. Don’t be shy about asking for
what you want. Restaurant staffs should be eager to make their customers happy.
Choose Wisely at the Salad Bar
This is a good place to fill up on nutritious vegetables.
Pile your plate with low-carb picks, like leafy greens, broccoli, and bell
peppers. Then add lean protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas. Cheese,
croutons, dried fruit, and bacon bits are high in calories, so only sprinkle on
a small amount. Skip the creamy pasta and potato salads, and go easy on the
dressing.
Think About Your Drink
Sweetened beverages tack calories and carbs onto your meal. If you’re not a fan of unsweetened tea or coffee, have a glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime. Want a glass of wine, beer, or a cocktail? With your doctor’s OK, alcohol is fine on occasion. A light beer or wine spritzer doesn’t pack too many calories. If you want a cocktail, opt for a calorie-free mixer like club soda instead of soda or tonic water.
Room for Dessert?
You can indulge in the occasional sweet treat while sticking
with your diabetes meal plan. If you want something sweet, cut back on carbs
during your meal. Pass on the bread basket, and hold the side of potatoes. To
keep from overdoing it, share the dessert with someone. A few bites are usually
all you need to feel satisfied.
Look Out for Sneaky Sugars
Even if you play it right with your drink and dessert, your
meal can still serve up a sugar shock. That’s because many dishes are prepared
with added sweeteners. For example, a quarter-cup of barbecue sauce can pack in
7 teaspoons of sugar. It’s best to steer clear of dishes described as BBQ,
glazed, sticky, honey, and teriyaki.
Build a Better Sandwich
Keep it simple. Specialty breads such as biscuits,
croissants, and hoagies are usually higher in fat and calories than a bun or
English muffin. Whatever you choose, it’s a good idea to take off the top and
go with an open-face version. For the filling, opt for a lean protein, such as
grilled chicken, deli turkey, or low-fat roast beef. Cheese packs in 100
calories per ounce, so skip it or stick with one slice. Then top it off with
mustard or oil and vinegar along with fresh vegetables, lettuce, and tomato.
Be Careful With Buffets
With their large spread of dishes, all-you-can-eat buffets
can be trouble. If possible, order off the menu instead. If you can’t avoid the
buffet, choose only a few dishes instead of small scoops of several different
things. A good rule of thumb: Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables,
then split the rest between a lean protein and starch, such as a whole grain.
Fast-Food Tips
The average fast-food meal can deliver 1,000 calories or
more. But you can find diabetes-friendly options at the drive-thru. First,
check the menu’s nutritional information: Grilled chicken sandwiches are often
low-fat options. Pair it with a side salad or apple slices instead of fries.
And to keep your portions in check, order the junior size instead of a deluxe
or supersize meal.
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Have a great week, everyone, and thank you for your support!
Blessed be… and happy cooking!
Chef Michael R