Eat Out and Lose Weight!

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Just because you're on a diet, doesn't mean you have to give up the good life.

Eating out and enjoying your social life is important for success and satisfaction as you lose weight.

Here are the eight top ways to dine out and log a loss in your weight tracker.

1. Don't go on an empty stomach. Have a satisfying snack, such as vegetable soup, before you leave the house. You'll make better menu choices if you don't feel ravenous.
   
   
2. Alternate wine with water. Save POINTS values on alcohol and pop by alternating with water or diet pop. Why not indulge and ask for sparkling water with a spritz of lime?
   
   
3. Request sauces and salad dressings on the side. That way you can control how much you use.
   
   
4. Share! Go family style and request one dessert with lots of spoons, so you can spread the calories around!
   
   
5. Remember your portion sizes. Restaurant servings are notoriously large, but you don't have to eat everything on the plate. Stick to the portion sizes you're becoming accustomed to on the POINTS plan and try packing up your leftovers in a doggy bag before you eat.
   
   
6. Be assertive. If the grilled chicken you requested comes out deep-fried, don't be afraid to send it back. It's not your mistake, but they are your POINTS values...
   
   
7. Make special requests. Most restaurants today gladly accommodate special requests and will often adjust any dish to your needs. So be sure to let the server know how you like it.
   
   
8. Eat slowly. Put your knife and fork down between bites, savour some good dinner conversation and most of all, enjoy the meal!