What if I told you that you can still get results AND stick to your goals while eating out at a restaurant?! Well guess what, YOU CAN and I’m going to share with you the 10 tips that will have you booking your next restaurant reservation ASAP!

1: Go online and choose 2 entree options BEFORE you leave for the restaurant. By having options already chosen you won’t run the risk of being tempted and going off-plan. Having a backup entree is always good since restaurants, especially at busy times, might run out of certain items. Preparation is key!

2: Have a small LOW fat/HIGH protein snack like Greek yogurt or a protein shake before you head to the restaurant. Eating a snack will ensure that you don’t go into the restaurant starving, wanting to eat everything in sight.

3: SKIP the bread! This one is tough, even for me but it will save you hundreds of empty calories. Just one loaf of that delicious brown bread from Outback Steakhouse is 300 calories NOT including the butter! I don’t know about you but I could easily eat one loaf all by myself.

4: Order YOUR entree first! Listening to what everyone else is indulging in might tempt you to go off track. Order first and stick to your plan!

5: Keep drinking water. Along with whatever other beverage you’re ordering, make sure to also ask for water. Drinking water throughout your meal will not only keep you hydrated but will also take up space in your stomach, leading to a feeling of fullness and reducing hunger.

6: Look for proteins that are described as being grilled, steamed and broiled and stay away from items that are described as fried, crispy or smothered.

7: When ordering your meal always ask your server to have it prepared with NO oil or butter. Having worked as a server for many years, I was able to see how food was prepared and cooked. I noticed that everything from the grilled chicken, fish and vegetables (the foods that were labeled as healthy options) were always slathered with butter before they were cooked, adding hidden calories to the meal that I wasn’t expecting. No wonder I wasn’t getting results!

8: Hold off on the bacon, cheese, and croutons when ordering your salad and ask for the dressing ON THE SIDE. Many people think they are eating healthy when ordering salads but don’t realize that all those extra toppings and high-calorie dressings can actually have MORE calories than a cheeseburger! Just 2 tablespoons of ranch dressing have 130 calories and 14 grams of fat! Instead, load up on the lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, spinach, peppers, and ask for a low-calorie dressing. If they don’t have any low-calorie dressings, ask for balsamic vinegar or salsa if your diet permits. Salsa is not only low in calories but it’s packed with flavor…a great option when it comes to a healthy salad topper.

9: To-go box, please! As soon as your server brings your entree ask for a to-go box. One entree at some restaurants can easily be 2-3 servings. Box up half your entree so you don’t feel tempted to clean your plate.

10: Slow down and ENJOY every bite. Cut your protein and veggies into smaller pieces so it takes you longer to eat, put your knife and fork down between bites and enjoy conversation with the people around you.

So the next time you’re hesitant to eat out, remember these 10 tips and I guarantee you will stay on track with your goals and still be able to enjoy a delicious meal!