Dining out too frequently with friends

etscher

My friends and I are in our twenties, and we tend to go out often when we see each other. Most of the time, I do pretty well at restaurants, and I finally figured out that an appetizer is usually plenty for me to eat without feeling hungry or deprived. However it seems like all we end up doing is going out to eat or going to a bar, which was fine before...but now that I'm more conscious about what I'm putting in my body, it's more difficult.

I suggested doing a monthly girls night at our apartments where we all bring a healthy dish, and this went over pretty well so we can all choose how much we put in front of ourselves. And it's a lot cheaper. We also started going to a wine bar near me for a glass of wine and a small cheese plate, which is easier on the calories than a regular bar or lounge.

For those of you with friends who like to go out a lot, how have you been able to balance your social life and diet so that neither one suffers?

KatherineLynnKane

Changing my lifestyle meant weeding out unhealthy activities and individuals associated with them.
When I told friends and co-workers that I'd no longer be available for certain activities some understood my decision and were very supportive---others were not. Those who enjoyed excessive eating and drinking every weekend certainly didn't want to change their routine to accommodate me.
I met a lot of new friends when I joined the YMCA and look forward to chatting with them before and after classes.
I've also joined a weight-loss support group and met several people who enjoy the same activities as I do.

I still go out to restaurants about twice a month and order a healthy meal.
I also attend a lot of parties, but now I drink bottled water instead of alcohol and avoid the buffet table.
I don't think that my social life has suffered...I think it has improved now that I'm making healthier choices.
And I am also saving money since I'm hiking and enjoying outdoor activities rather than buying pizza and beer !

chelseafxx

I stopped going out. I realized I hate drinking anyway so I don't even want the extra calories. I have no problem meeting my friends up for food every once in a while. I just make it my cheat meal of the week. Other than that, I'll meet them up after dinner. Not a big deal. Also the only time I have some beers is when my SO and I go out to eat or watch a game at the bar. If my friends don't like it <insert south park voice> then they can gitttttttttttttttout!

bjg2993

If you want to drink or eat out, just work it into your deficit. You shouldn't force yourself not to do these things if you enjoy them just because you are dieting. Just moderate yourself. If you want to lose a lot of weight quickly, then I can see the merits of cutting alcohol and eating out completely or just having less - but you do need to find a middle ground and make a decision that suits what you want and what makes you happy.

I work my way around it by having a very healthy day before said meal or drinks, e.g eating lots of fruit and veg instead of having more calorie dense foods and by doing exercise. As your main worry seems to be eating out, it shouldn't be - if possible, look up menus online for nutrition information before you go perhaps, so you can make an informed decision? Or if you feel like you deserve it just treat them as a cheat day?

Branstin

It takes time to adjust but you have done it very nicely. I am glad you have supportive friends. I started out just by being honest and open with friends and family. I told them that I was starting a weight loss plan and they were very supportive. I search online menus beforehand and select my food before going to the restaurants. Planning ahead as much as possible was the key for me. Sometimes, but not too often, I eat at my calories maintenance so I could have more calories for my social life. Since the weather is getting warmer then you could suggest outdoor activities like walking track then going for a nice frozen yogurt.