Dine Out Low Carb – Keto on the Go!

I often hear that following a low carb lifestyle makes it hard to dine out – it’s entirely possible to dine out low carb, enjoy delicious food and still make healthy choices to lose weight. If you don’t plan ahead, you may find yourself caught off-guard and end up eating something you wished you hadn’t. I can go to most  restaurants and find low carb or keto options easily and I live in a small community on the Canadian Prairies!

When following a low carb lifestyle, your biggest goal is no sugar and no grains which equals low carb. If you’re new to low carb or keto, stick to restaurants that have a larger menu and one that you can view online so you can make some decisions ahead of time, so you are best prepared.

Check In With Your Motivation (Your Why)

Before heading out, check in and reaffirm your goals so you stay motivated and avoid temptations. Remember that five minutes of dining pleasure can be overshadowed by a few days of lingering effects on your body (inflammation from gluten and sugar – my joints are stiff for days).

Dine Out Low Carb – Plan to Succeed

Many restaurants are willing to make modifications or substitutions so you can easily order a bun-less burger or ribs with the sauce on the side. Naked, oven roasted wings, Caesar salad without the croutons or a grilled steak with a side of veggies or salad are also great options. Look for an online menu so you can decide ahead of time what options you’ll have.

Don’t Arrive Starving!

You can give yourself a bit of an edge if you have a small high protein snack before you go. This will help you avoid the temptation of an unhealthy appetizer which could spiral your dining experience out of control. If you can’t eat before going, opt for a dip and ask them to substitute the chips with veggies.

Dine Out Low Carb Quick Tips:

• Ditch the bun and ask for lettuce wrapped
• Top your salad with a double portion of protein
• Ask for dressing on the side
• Add bacon and cheese
• Proteins should be grilled, not breaded
• Ask for a low carb side instead of fries or potatoes

Everyone Loves Pizza

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love pizza (if you are that odd ball person who doesn’t, we cannot be friends!!!) You have a few options with pizza – ask your server if they will make you a ham (or salami) crust – they lay down ham slices on the parchment paper and build your pizza on top.  Super easy, and we’ve had just one restaurant refuse (I think it was more that the teenager working the till couldn’t be bothered). You can also just eat the toppings off the crust and leave the crust behind if they say no. We enjoy pizza toppings along with a nice salad!

Pasta Possibilities

When it comes to pasta, the sauce is where it’s at. If you ate the pasta by itself, it’s pretty bland and boring – we like the sauce! If the sauce is low carb, consider having it over grilled meat and veggies for a flavour burst! Make sure the Alfredo is made without flour or another carb-loaded thickener – Alfredo sauce is super easy to make at home WITHOUT a thickener! Some restaurants are now offering zoodles (spiralled zucchini). Also, remember to skip the garlic toast.

Dine Out Low Carb = Breakfast ALLDAY!

Did you say breakfast? We call it backwards day in our family! Many restaurants offer breakfast all day so that’s a GREAT option! Order a deluxe omelette with extra meat and a side of bacon or ham, skip the hash browns and toast. Enjoy a good cup of coffee with it and you’re golden! Save having waffles and pancakes for at home (YES, there are delicious low carb options!).

Choose your Beverage Carefully

Skip the sugary soft drinks and opt for water with a wedge of lemon. If you choose a low carb alcoholic beverage, be mindful that as you consume alcohol, you may become a little uninhibited and may end up consuming things you’d wished you hadn’t.

Dastardly Desserts!

While you may be tempted to order a dessert like everyone else, refrain. See if the restaurant has fresh berries and whipping cream. I am often too full to have a big dessert so one spoon of something can take the craving away and you haven’t eaten the entire dessert. I carry squares of sugar free chocolate with me as a backup if I really am craving something. Eating a gluten filled dessert has consequences later on for me.

Final Words

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions when dining out. We rarely get told no or get a rude response. Most places are eager to please and have your business. It may seem odd and a bit strange if you’re used to just going with the flow, but it will get easier, I promise.

If you are dining with a critical person who doesn’t understand why you are eating the way you are or their negativity makes you feel embarrassed and ashamed, stop going out with them and choose supportive dining partners instead.