Daily Tips

Dining Out

Going out to a restaurant should be a relaxing, sumptuous, and satisfying pleasure. For some people with diabetes, it can be fraught with temptations and let-downs. Adopt a few rules for yourself and make dining out more fun:

• Kid-size it. Ask if you can get child-sized portions of menu items, or request a half-portion.
• Call ahead. Call the restaurant a few hours ahead and ask about the menu and food preparation. Even if they aren’t familiar with diabetes, they will have certainly catered to diners on low-carbohydrate eating plans. Ask to speak to the chef -- you may end up happily surprised with his or her suggestions or offers.
• Ask about substituting. Don’t be afraid to ask your server if substitutions are available for menu items.
• Look in the mirror. While you fix your hair, practice saying: “No, thank you," and "Would you be so kind as to take the bread basket away?”
• Analyze. Many popular national and regional eateries offer nutritional information for the asking, either online or at their restaurants.
• Have a dessert strategy. Just can’t pass up dessert? Ask for berries and fresh, whipped cream without sugar. Or share one dessert among several diners.