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EATING OUT WITH DIABETES
With some planning, a person with diabetes can easily enjoy a meal at their favorite cafe. It all depends upon making appropriate choices. Keep the following tips in mind when eating out.
Eat Before Going to Dinner - You may be thinking, "Huh?" But, eating a small nutritious snack and drinking a glass of water before going out to dinner, will prevent you being famished by the time you arrive at the cafe. If you eat before leaving home or the office, you'll be not as likely to order an unhealthy meal or overeat.
Plan Where You're Going Before You Leave - If you know where you're going, you'll have plenty of time to choose what you're going to order before you arrive atthe cafe. If you're going to a familiar restaurant, don't even look at the menu. Checking out tips and come back to the restaurant.
Make the Healthiest Choice - You may be craving a certain item, but think about how you'll feel afterwards if you don't eat properly. You don't want to sigh, "I wish I hadn't eaten that," after your meal. You'll never have any regrets if you always order the wisest choice for you.
Order Vegetables - Order a salad and steamed vegetables with your dinner, even if it means making a special request.
Drink Water - Order a glass of water with lemon to drink with your dinner instead of ordering alcohol or soft drinks. A cup of black, green, or oolong tea is also an excellent choice.
On the Side - Request dressings, sauces, and gravy on the side. You can better manage how much you eat by dipping your food instead of covering it.
Keep Away From the Complimentary Basket of Bread - Decline the bread basket. Bread will affect your blood sugar.
Only Eat Half of Your Meal - Cease eating when you've finished half of your dinner. Have your server box up the rest and eat it later. The bonus is you keep your blood sugar and portions in control and don't have to prepare anything for your next meal.
Remember That Eating Out is Not a "Treat" - Diabetes is a way of life and you must eat properly and control your blood sugar to avoid complications. Remember that you're not "taking a break" from eating properly when eating at a restaurant.
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