Many of us have already started our New Year’s Resolutions and are now taking the month of January to reset. We may cleanse, detox, or take on a wellness challenge. What happens if you’ve made dinner plans, whether for work or a friend, during the program? Do you need to cancel your social events to follow the plan? My opinion is no. This is how I would approach it to achieve your goals for January while still having a social lifestyle.
Select the restaurant
You can help your group by offering to choose the restaurant. You can look at the menu in advance to see what is available.
Call ahead
As someone who has been diagnosed with Celiac disease, I call restaurants ahead of time to make sure they can accommodate my needs. As chefs appreciate the ability to prepare ahead of time, this allows you to dine at restaurants that would not normally be able to accommodate you. You can also ask questions in advance if you want to know more about a particular menu item.
Snacks ahead of time
It is difficult to resist the unhealthy items on the menu if you arrive at the restaurant hungry. You can enjoy your main course without having to eat an appetizer if you snack in advance.
4) Make a conscious choice
When you first arrive at a restaurant, you may have good intentions, but as you look around, you might lose your resolve. Visualize how you would like to feel following the meal and make a choice that will allow you to achieve this.
Build your plate correctly
You will need to consider your dietary requirements, but in general, I choose a protein that is clean, with roasted, steamed or sautéed vegetables, and a salad as a side. You can choose to have the seasoning omitted or adjust it according to your taste.
6) Stay booze free
You can order sparkling water or club soda with lime if everyone else is drinking. You can sip it and feel like you are drinking, but without the hangover.
Own it
It can be awkward if you’re the only person in your group who is watching what you eat. I have said this in my tips for staying alcohol-free. It’s just a feeling. You are the one who will feel great the next morning, not the person making unhealthy choices.
