When you are trying to stick to an eating plan such as the South Beach Diet, dining out can be challenging. The key to success is recognizing which foods you can have plenty of and which foods you should pass on. Heading out to a restaurant with this in mind and being prepared to ask questions about the food you are ordering will help you stick to your plan.
Step 1
Consider which phase of the diet you are currently in and recognize which foods you are not supposed to be eating. For example, in Phase 1, the diet requires you to cut out fruits, grains and starchy vegetables.
Step 2
Check the menu of the restaurant online if possible before you dine there. This will help you to eliminate options and have an idea for a few choices you can consider depending on what you are hungry for.
Step 3
Review appropriate portion sizes provided with the diet before dining out. This gives you an idea of how much you should be eating. If the portions are too large, share or take half of the meal home for lunch the next day.
Step 4
Focus on fish as a main course, which is allowed in all phases of the diet. Grilled salmon is a good option, but always double-check when selecting any fish to ensure that it is not fried.
Step 5
Choose beef top loin or pork tenderloin if you prefer an entree with meat. Other options are ground sirloin and lamb chops.
Step 6
Select vegetables and not starches as your side items. Broccoli, green beans, cauliflower, mushrooms, summer squash and spinach are common sides at many restaurants. Ask how they are prepared, and select those made with heart-healthy fats such as olive oil, or ask that they are prepared without fat.
Step 7
Choose a salad as another option for a main course; however, carefully read over the ingredients. A lean protein such as fish or chicken and additional vegetables such as broccoli, peppers, snow peas and tomatoes are good options. Choose an olive oil-based dressing or one with less than 3 g of sugar per serving.
Step 8
Make any grains whole grains. If you are craving a roll or some pasta, you can have it if you are not in Phase 1. Just select items that are 100 percent whole grain.
Step 9
Enjoy a glass of red wine with your meal if you have progressed to Phase 2.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask to have dressings served on the side so that you can control the amount you eat.
- Remember that the limit for oils and fat is 1 tbsp. each for lunch and dinner and 1 tsp. for breakfast. Pay attention to the way your food selection is prepared.
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